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Asthma Specialist

Acclaim Pediatrics

Pediatric Clinic located in Grand Prairie, TX

When your child suffers from asthma, it can mean anxiety and worry for both you and your child. Omolara Abitoye, MD, and her team at Acclaim Pediatrics in Grand Prairie, Texas, offer asthma treatment and ongoing support for you and your child as you maneuver this difficult condition throughout childhood. For diagnosis and comprehensive asthma care, call or schedule an appointment online today.

Asthma Q & A

What is asthma?

Asthma is a common, chronic childhood condition that causes episodes in which breathing is difficult. An asthma attack occurs when a trigger of some kind causes your child's airways to produce excessive mucus, constrict, swell, and narrow. Attacks can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours.

Typically, your child presents with symptoms of asthma before age five, but It may be challenging to recognize asthma symptoms in very young children. They may outgrow asthma, or their symptoms may persist or worsen into adulthood. 

Ongoing management and support are essential when your child has asthma, as their symptoms may evolve, and treatment plans may need to change as they get older. The Acclaim Pediatrics team works closely with you to find a treatment plan that effectively diminishes their frequency of attacks. 

What are the symptoms of asthma? 

If your child has asthma, they may have episodes of:

  • Wheezing
  • Coughing
  • Chest tightness
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Exercise or physical exertion 

A child with asthma may have frequent chest colds, congestion, or respiratory infections. Children with seasonal or environmental allergies are more prone to having asthma. 

What are the common triggers for asthma?

Each child has specific triggers that may cause an asthma attack. Some common triggers include:

  • Extreme temperatures 
  • Pollen or dust
  • Anxiety
  • Strong smells
  • Smoke
  • Exercise 
  • Colds or seasonal allergies

A vital part of managing your child's asthma is identifying what triggers an attack. Keeping a journal over an extended amount of time can help you determine what triggers to avoid in the future. 

What are the treatments for asthma?

The team at Acclaim Pediatrics works closely with you and your child to develop a plan to avoid their asthma triggers. Trigger avoidance is the first line of defense against asthma attacks. 

They may also recommend daily oral or inhaled medication to offset the immune response that causes asthmatic symptoms. They also order emergency medications, such as rescue inhalers, to have in case of an asthma attack. 

If you suspect your child has asthma or if you need support for managing their condition, call or schedule an appointment online with Acclaim Pediatrics.