Childhood Asthma: Not Just a Seasonal Problem

If your child has repeated coughing, noisy breathing, or shortness of breath - especially at night or during play - they might not just be catching colds. These can be signs of childhood asthma, a long-term condition that affects the lungs and airways.

As a trusted child allergy and asthma specialist in Siliguri, Dr. Brahma Dev Singh sees many children suffering from asthma-like symptoms - often undiagnosed or misunderstood. This blog helps parents understand what asthma is, how to recognise it, and how to manage it effectively for a healthy, active childhood.

What Is Childhood Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic (long-term) condition where the airways in the lungs become inflamed and narrow, making it harder to breathe. In children, this often leads to:

• Wheezing or whistling sounds while breathing
• Coughing (especially at night)
• Chest tightness or discomfort
• Breathlessness or fast breathing during activity or sleep

How Common Is Asthma in Children?

According to the Indian Academy of Paediatrics, around 10-15% of school-aged children in India experience asthma symptoms. Many children in Siliguri and surrounding regions suffer due to high pollen, dust, humidity, and changing weather conditions.

What Causes Asthma in Children?

While the exact cause isn’t always clear, these factors increase the risk:

• Family history of asthma or allergies
• Exposure to smoke, dust mites, or pollution
• Cold air or viral infections
• Allergens like pollen, pet dander, mould
• Strong emotions or physical activity
• Early respiratory infections in infancy

Dr. Singh notes that asthma often runs in families and can appear anytime from infancy to teenage years.

Signs and Symptoms of Asthma

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may vary from one child to another. Common signs include:

• Frequent cough that lasts more than 10 days
• Trouble sleeping due to coughing or wheezing
• Tiredness from poor sleep
• Avoiding play or physical activity
• Breathlessness during crying or running
• Use of chest or neck muscles to breathe (a serious sign)

Diagnosis: How Is Asthma Confirmed?

There's no single test for asthma, especially in children under 5. Diagnosis is based on:

• Detailed medical history
• Physical examination
• Response to bronchodilator medicine
• Lung function tests (for older children)
• Allergy tests to identify specific triggers

As a seasoned paediatrician in Siliguri, Dr. Singh takes a careful, case-by-case approach to diagnose asthma accurately and avoid over- or under-treatment.

How Is Asthma Treated in Children?

Asthma cannot be cured, but it can be well controlled with the right treatment plan. Dr. Singh uses a step-wise approach tailored to each child.

1. Inhalers (Bronchodilators)

• Open airways quickly during an asthma attack
• Safe and effective for children when used with spacers

2. Controller Medications

• Taken daily to prevent inflammation
• Include inhaled corticosteroids or leukotriene modifiers

3. Allergy Management

• Avoiding known triggers
• Antihistamines for allergic rhinitis if present

4. Emergency Plan

• Parents receive a written asthma action plan
• Instructions on when to use inhalers or visit the hospital

Asthma Care with Dr. Brahma Dev Singh

As a leading provider of allergy and asthma treatment for children in Siliguri, Dr. Singh offers:

• Accurate diagnosis of asthma
• Child-friendly inhaler training
• Management of exercise-induced asthma
• Help with seasonal or persistent triggers
• Support for parents through every stage

He also monitors growth, side effects, and development during treatment to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Tips for Managing Asthma at Home

• Avoid smoke exposure - including incense or mosquito coils
• Keep windows closed during high pollen days
• Use dust-mite proof bedding
• Maintain regular cleaning and ventilation
• Encourage swimming - a child-friendly activity for asthma
• Track symptoms in a diary or phone app
• Always carry a rescue inhaler if prescribed

When to Seek Immediate Help

Take your child to the emergency room or call a doctor if:

• They are struggling to breathe
• Their lips or fingers turn blue
• They cannot speak or cry normally
• Rescue inhalers are not helping
• Chest or neck is sinking while breathing

Common Myths About Childhood Asthma

Myth: "Inhalers are addictive."
Truth: Inhalers are safe, effective, and life-saving.

Myth: "Kids with asthma shouldn't play sports."
Truth: With proper control, children can play, swim, and live actively.

Myth: "Asthma will go away on its own."
Truth: Some children outgrow symptoms, but many need regular follow-up care.

Asthma doesn't have to limit your child's life. With proper diagnosis, daily management, and expert support, your child can run, laugh, and grow just like any other.

Dr. Brahma Dev Singh, a respected paediatrician and allergy specialist in Siliguri, is here to help your child breathe easy again. Don't wait - schedule an evaluation today and take charge of your child's asthma.