Maryland Children Health Center helps treat and manage your child's asthma so they can stay healthy and active. Keep reading to help your child manage asthma symptoms and contact us when you need asthma treatment in Glenn Dale and Oxon Hill, MD.
What Is Asthma?
Asthma is a common condition that affects the airways. Asthmatic airways become inflamed and produce extra mucus. This causes the airways to narrow and makes it harder to breathe. Genetic and environmental factors can contribute to asthmatic episodes. Some common asthma triggers are viral infections or environmental factors like smoke, dust, mold, and pet dander.
What Are The Symptoms?
Symptoms of asthma can include wheezing and coughing episodes. You may notice a high-pitched whistling sound when they breathe. They may also experience shallow breathing, or describe shortness of breath or a tightness in their chest. If your child is experiencing these symptoms, they need asthma treatment in Glenn Dale and Oxon Hill, MD.
How Is Asthma Treated?
Some oral steroids can help with severe asthma symptoms, and inhalers are a common treatment for asthma attacks. Steroid inhalers work by delivering medication that reduces inflammation and dilates the airways straight to the lungs.
While an inhaler can help during an attack, you cannot rely on it completely to manage asthma symptoms. Another important part of asthma treatment will be lifestyle modifications that help your child avoid triggers and prevent attacks.
How Can I Help My Child?
Pay attention to what triggers asthma attacks and if symptoms worsen at certain times of the day, or during sports and activity. Some children feel their asthma symptoms subside as they grow and their lungs and airways develop, but some patients will always need to manage their asthma.
To help your child avoid asthma triggers, a good cleaning schedule for linens and dust at home can be helpful to reduce exposure to allergens. Using an air purifier in your home also helps reduce the allergens your child will breathe in. When your child does experience a flare-up, ensure they use their prescribed medication or inhaler. For a severe flare-up, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Asthma Treatment Now
When your child needs asthma treatment in Glenn Dale and Oxon Hill, MD, come to Maryland Children Health Center. Contact us now for help managing their symptoms in Glenn Dale, MD, at (301) 218-0398, and in Oxon Hill, MD, at (301) 567-1767.