Asthma is the most prevalent chronic condition in children in the U.S.

• Nine million children under 18 have been diagnosed with asthma¹
• Asthma rates in children under 5 increased more than 160% from 1980–1994¹
• Children 5–7 years old missed 14.7 million school days due to asthma in 2002¹
• Asthma in children causes almost 3 million physician visits each year²
• Asthma in children accounts for approximately 200,000 hospitalizations each year²
• Up to 80% of children with asthma develop symptoms before age 5²

What is asthma?

Asthma is a condition that affects the airways—the small tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs. The lungs in children with asthma are more sensitive and easily inflamed by irritants (triggers).

This makes it harder to breathe. Several types of treatments are available to help your child breathe easier and manage these episodes, so be sure to discuss treatment options with your doctor.

Causes and Triggers

Believe it or not, the common cold is a frequent trigger for asthma attacks. Your child might react to something in the air - an irritant such as smoke or dust—even cold air alone can be a trigger. Asthma can also be caused by allergens, like mold, pollen or pet dander. Airborne chemicals and pollutants can also trigger an asthma episode.

Signs and symptoms of asthma

You need to know your child’s early warning signs to effectively manage an asthma episode. During severe asthma episodes, children may need emergency treatment to restore normal breathing. The most important thing to do is to follow the advice of your doctor.

During an asthma attack

• Production of mucus may increase⁴
• Airways narrow
• Muscles around the airway walls tighten
• Airways become inflamed and swell with fluid

Common treatments

Bronchodilators

Most asthma patients use a bronchodilator, commonly called an “inhaler.” Medicine delivered through an inhaler usually relieves asthma symptoms quickly, so these medicines are sometimes called “rescue” medicines. They quickly relax the muscles surrounding airways, making it easier to breath again.

However, if your child needs to use an inhaler more than once in any day, or more than three to four times a week, your doctor may prescribe an anti-inflammatory medication.

Anti-inflammatories

Corticosteriods, such as Orapred ODT, that can help control swelling and inflammation in the airways. They also help prevent the airways from being so sensitive to asthma triggers. The protective effect of anti-inflammatory treatments builds up over time, so it is important for children to take their medicine every day as prescribed, even when feeling well. By taking medicine regularly and exactly as directed by the doctor, your child may be able to gain long-term control while reducing the likelihood of further airway impairment.