Wondering if your child might have asthma? Learn how to spot early symptoms, understand common triggers and know when it’s time to talk to your doctor about testing.

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects a significant number of kids worldwide. In Canada alone, more than 850,000 children under the age of 14 manage this condition, making it the most prevalent chronic childhood disease. The severity of asthma symptoms can vary, ranging from mild and occasional to severe and persistent, but regardless of severity, it’s crucial to address asthma symptoms promptly. But many parents wonder what symptoms to look out for, what to do to help their children and how to get an official diagnosis. Read on to learn more.

Diagnosing Asthma in Young Children

Diagnosing asthma in children under the age of six presents unique challenges. Due to their small airways and the similarity of asthma symptoms to other respiratory conditions, establishing an accurate diagnosis can be difficult. While spirometry tests (a type of pulmonary function test used to measure airflow and response to medications) are commonly used in older children, they are not typically reliable for little ones.

Instead, recent studies suggest that a thorough assessment of clinical symptoms and medical history is essential for diagnosing asthma in toddlers, preschoolers and early school agers. Notably, the presence of a persistent dry cough has been identified as a strong indicator of asthma in this age group. If a child has frequent coughing episodes—especially at night or after physical activity—or repeated wheezing and shortness of breath, it’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider about whether asthma testing is appropriate. Recurrent respiratory symptoms that interfere with daily activities or sleep are especially strong reasons to seek further evaluation.

Common Triggers of Asthma in Children

Asthma symptoms in children can be triggered by various factors, both allergic and non-allergic. Respiratory infections, particularly viral ones like the common cold, are among the most common triggers. In fact, colds can account for up to 90 percent of asthma attacks in children, compared to 40 percent in adults.  Other common triggers include exposure to tobacco smoke, air pollutants, allergens such as dust mites, pet dander and pollen, as well as physical activities and even emotional stress. Managing these triggers involves creating a controlled environment, avoiding known allergens, and implementing strategies to prevent respiratory infections (handwashing for the win!).

Risk Factors and Management Strategies

Several factors can increase a child's risk of developing asthma. Children born prematurely or those with a family history of asthma or allergies are at higher risk. Additionally, environmental factors, like exposure to tobacco smoke and ongoing air pollution, can contribute to the development and exacerbation of asthma symptoms. Effective management of asthma includes adhering to prescribed medication regimens, monitoring symptoms and avoiding known triggers. It's essential for parents and caregivers to work closely with healthcare providers to develop an individualized asthma action plan that addresses their child's specific needs and circumstances.

How to Respond to an Asthma Attack

An asthma attack occurs when the airways become inflamed and narrowed, leading to increased difficulty in breathing. Signs of an attack may include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness or a noticeable struggle to breathe.

The first step in managing an asthma attack is to follow the child’s asthma action plan. This plan, developed in collaboration with a healthcare provider, outlines specific steps to take during an attack, including when and how to use reliever medications such as a short-acting bronchodilator (often called a “rescue inhaler”). These medications work quickly to relax the airway muscles and restore airflow.

Here are some other key actions to take in the event of an asthma attack:

  • Ensure the child is in an upright position to make breathing easier. K
  • Keep the environment calm and reassuring, as anxiety can worsen symptoms.
  • If there is no improvement after the recommended dose of medication, or if symptoms are severe—such as bluish lips, inability to speak in full sentences or a significant drop in activity level—call 911.

It's important that caregivers, teachers and others involved in the child's life are familiar with the asthma action plan and know how to respond during an emergency. Keeping rescue inhalers accessible and checking their expiry dates regularly is also crucial to being prepared.