Asthma attack (Pediatrics - PEDS)

In asthma there is inflammation and mucus in the airways that impede (to a greater or lesser extent) airflow: there will be difficulty breathing and shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing and sometimes secretion. There is a genetic predisposition and triggers for asthma (pollen, mites, hair, etc.) that must be avoided. Diagnosis is clinical. An x-ray will rule out pneumonia or other causes of shortness of breath. In mild cases, inhaled bronchodilator drugs and/or corticosteroids with a few hours of hospital monitoring are often sufficient. In more severe cases, oxygen will be added as well as an assessment when admitted to intensive care. A hospital with a pediatric department must be consulted when it is the first episode or, if the patient is known to be asthmatic when symptoms are more severe or last longer than usual. Warning signs: Severe difficulty breathing, drowsiness and signs of exhaustion.