Dr. John Vann and Dr. Tricia Schmit see children with asthma in addition to well and sick children daily at the Omaha Children's Clinic in Omaha, NE. Our doctors are here today to discuss with you one of the diseases they see the most often.
A Common Lung Disease
A child carries this diagnosis into adulthood. Some say they have outgrown this respiratory disease, but have been able to manage the symptoms well and have had no increased symptoms or breathing episodes for years. Occasionally, an adult who has never had this can acquire it later in life.
When asthma flares up, the tiny airways in the lungs narrow, swell, become inflamed, and have a build-up of mucus, making it difficult to breathe. Symptoms can be minor or life-threatening. The most minor asthma reactions need a quick dose of medication to reopen airways.
Symptoms
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Coughing
- Tight feeling in the chest
- Chest pressure
- Chest pain
- Anxiety, panic
- Bluish colored nails, fingers, lips
- Inability to speak
- Paleness
- Profuse sweating
Respiratory Illness has Three Types
There are three types: persistent, non-allergic, and allergic. Our doctor at Omaha Children’s Clinic in Omaha, NE, can help identify what type your child has and what is likely to trigger an attack. A few common triggers are infections, medications, exercise, smoke, chemicals, and more.
How Do We Diagnose This Condition?
We meet with you and your child to do a comprehensive medical history. We need to know if anyone in your family has this condition. Please keep a journal and write down when and what your child's symptoms were. Can you identify what you believe caused the symptoms?
We may measure your child's breathing with spirometry to tell us how much airflow your child is getting through their lungs. We may do a chest X-ray, a blood test, or allergy skin tests.
Treatment Options
Asthmatic symptoms are well-managed with bronchodilators such as a rescue inhaler for increased symptoms. Our doctor may order anti-inflammatory medicines or initiate biological therapies if the condition is severe. Our doctor prescribes oral, inhalers, or a nebulizer to administer medications.
It is best to follow our doctor's recommendations for the prevention of increased asthmatic symptoms by taking medications as ordered and avoiding the things that you know will make the symptoms worse. Learning to manage asthmatic symptoms means living a high-quality, productive life.
Call Us Today for Your Child's Appointment!
We would love it if you came to discuss our policies and beliefs regarding the best quality healthcare for children. Call Dr. Vann and Dr. Schmit today at 402-330-5690. Schedule your child's asthma appointment at Omaha Children's Clinic in Omaha, NE.