Asthma in childhood

Abstract

Asthma is the most common chronic childhood disease. Symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing, and/or cough are observed. These complaints may be triggered by factors such as contact with allergens and irritants, viral respiratory infections, exercise, or weather. In persistent asthma patients, symptoms usually begin before school, and complaints continue significantly at later ages. Wheezing is the most common symptom from preschool age. The most common type in school-age children is allergic asthma. A detailed history is the most important step in diagnosing asthma. Symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath occur at older ages, while wheezing is the most common finding in preschool children. Physical examination has an important place in the diagnosis of asthma after a detailed history. Laboratory and respiratory function tests are also helpful in the diagnosis of asthma. Medicines in the treatment of asthma are divided into two groups: relievers and controllers. Relaxing drugs are short-acting beta agonists while controlling drugs are inhaled corticosteroids. Oral corticosteroids are also used in the treatment of asthma attacks. Poorly treated asthma has a heavy socioeconomic burden, such as loss of employment, health care, and medication costs.