When should I call my child’s doctor?
My child’s asthma may not be under control.
Since asthma is a long-term condition, your child’s asthma symptoms will keep
coming back. That’s one of the first clues your doctor may have that your child
has asthma or that their asthma is not under control.
Does your child:
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Experience daytime symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath or
chest tightness more than twice a week?
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Wake at night with similar symptoms of coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath
or chest tightness more than twice a month?
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Have a cough that persists for weeks following a cold?
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Experience episodes of the above respiratory symptoms that require visits to
the doctor, emergency room, or urgent care center?
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Need to use rescue medicine more than twice a week?
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Have trouble keeping up with their friends when running or playing sports as a
result of breathing problems?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you should talk to your child’s
doctor about asthma symptoms. Only the doctor can accurately diagnose your
child’s actual health condition.
What about local asthma screening programs in my community?
You can also participate in a free screening program in your area. The American
College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) provides asthma screening
programs in communities around the country. This simple screening can indicate
whether your child may have asthma. Simply choose your state below to find an
asthma screening program near you.
State:
If you learn that your child has asthma, you should schedule a follow-up
appointment with his or her doctor.