Pediatric Care for Asthma and Allergies
Welcome to Pearsall Pediatrics, where we specialize in effective asthma management for children. Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways, causing inflammation and swelling. Children with asthma may experience wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing, particularly in the early morning or at night. Due to their smaller airways, asthma can be particularly serious for children.
Asthma can be triggered by various factors, including:
- Allergens Mold, pollen, and animals.
- Irritants Cigarette smoke and air pollution.
- Weather Cold air and weather changes.
- Exercise.
- Infections Flu and common cold.
When asthma symptoms worsen, it is known as an asthma attack. Treatment for asthma involves two types of medications: quick-relief medicines to alleviate symptoms and long-term control medicines to prevent symptoms.
For cases that require long-term controller medications, we conduct follow-up appointments every six months to ensure the asthma remains well controlled. Poorly managed asthma can lead to long-term loss of lung function, so our goal is to ensure your child can breathe well for life.
Allergies are another common concern. They can occur seasonally or persist throughout the year (perennial). In many regions of the United States, seasonal allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, is often caused by plant pollens. Indoor substances like mold, dust mites, and pet dander can cause perennial allergies.
Nearly half of all children will experience allergic rhinitis (runny nose) or allergic conjunctivitis (itchy eyes) at some point. Children are more likely to develop allergies if one or both parents have allergies.
While many allergy treatments are available over the counter, it is crucial to follow your physician’s guidance when using them. In cases of severe allergies, consulting an allergist can help identify specific allergens to avoid. Allergists also offer allergy immunotherapy, which can be administered orally or through shots, providing long-term suppression of allergies.
At Pearsall Pediatrics, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for asthma and allergies, ensuring your child’s well-being and respiratory health.
