Asthma Treatment for Children

Asthma is a chronic lung disease resulting in swelling, inflammation, and narrowing of the airways. Symptoms include tightness and pain in the chest, wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Many factors trigger asthma, such as food, dust, pet dander, and even exercise. If your child is at risk of developing asthma in New Port Richey, FL, you must comprehend the dangers and learn how to observe the signs. Though a cure for asthma isn't available, you can visit Dr. Haravu Lokesh, Dr. Rupal Desai, Dr. Monica Porcelli, and Tarah Savino, PA at A to Z Pediatrics to discuss appropriate treatments, prevent asthma attacks, and help your child live their best quality of life.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), asthma attacks in children have declined from 2001 through 2020. Even though asthma is controllable, 50% of children with asthma are unable to control the disease. Asthma can be debilitating and hinder a child's ability to play sports, participate in certain activities, or lead to emotional distress. But with guidance from our physicians at At to Z Pediatrics, we can help you manage your child's symptoms and prevent their growing lungs from enduring damage.

Asthma Treatment for Children

Asthma is complex to diagnose. Our pediatrician may recommend allergy (skin) testing to pinpoint triggers and rule out rhinitis, sinusitis, acid reflux, or other conditions that cause asthma-like symptoms in some cases.

Lung function tests measure how much air your child exhales and how quickly, while nitric oxide tests determine whether steroid medications are beneficial. Both can provide insight into the causes and severity of your child's asthma in New Port Richey, FL. Our pediatrician bases a treatment plan on few or no medication side effects, minimal inhaler use, no limitations of physical activities, few flare-ups, and minimal or no symptoms.

The goal of treating asthma is to prevent or reduce symptoms or treat an asthma attack already underway. We determine what treatment methods work for your child based on age, triggers, symptoms, and observation.

If your child is under age three and has mild symptoms, our pediatrician could recommend a wait-and-see approach to avoid medications that could harm their immune system. However, if your child has severe wheezing symptoms, visit our office immediately. Long-term treatment options for child asthma include inhaled corticosteroids or oral medications that subside symptoms for at least 24 hours.

Your Child’s Asthma Consultation: What To Expect

At A to Z Pediatrics, a thorough asthma consultation includes a compassionate evaluation by our doctor. Expect a detailed review of your child's medical history, lung function tests, and personalized treatment plans. Children and caregivers need clear explanations on managing symptoms, medication guidance, and ongoing support for optimal asthma control.

Please explore our website to learn about the conditions we treat and the services provided. If your child has asthma in New Port Richey, FL, take action to ensure they don't experience breathing complications. To book an appointment with Dr. Haravu Lokesh, Dr. Rupal Desai, Dr. Monica Porcelli, and Tarah Savino, PA at A to Z Pediatrics, call (727) 375-5242.