Have you noticed a change in your child’s breathing habits? Shortness of breath and wheezing may signal that your child has asthma in Denham Springs, LA. The Pediatric Associates Denham Springs doctors are ready to help your child. If you suspect this issue, it is time to prepare your child for a screening appointment. A screening can provide a correct diagnosis and rule out other ailments causing respiratory issues.

What Is Asthma?

This chronic lung disease is often diagnosed in childhood. It happens due to the immune system responding to certain substances, like allergens. The lung's airways react by constricting and making it difficult to breathe. It shows up in shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing, and coughing.

Your child may have a flare-up from an allergic reaction to pollen, smoke, dust, pet dander, or other environmental substances. However, some people have attacks from extreme physical exertion. The condition does not have a cure, but proper management can ensure your child can enjoy life without constant attacks. A local pediatrician can provide the care you need. The first step is a proper diagnosis during a screening at Pediatric Associates Denham Springs.

How to Prepare for a Screening?

When you need to take your child for an asthma screening in Denham Springs, LA, have as much information available about your child’s medical history. Note what possible asthma triggers may be in your area. For example, do attacks mostly happen at night, outside near after grass has been cut, or in gym class? If your child takes medication, bring those in for the doctor to review. If your child is young, they may be scared to visit the doctor. Therefore, make sure they are comfortable and bring their favorite toy. Dress them in loose and comfortable clothing that is easy to remove when the doctor does an examination.

Testing may involve a full body exam to check their overall health and rule out other conditions, like inflammation from an infection. Your doctors will check lung function when the child is at rest and after exercise. They will measure how much air they can exhale and how quickly. An allergy test may also be appropriate.

You don’t want to see your child sick. However, asthma in Denham Springs, LA, is manageable with professional intervention. With proper screening, doctors can find possible triggers and prescribe medication to prevent flare-ups and inhalers to ease them when they happen. The local medical team at Pediatric Associates Denham Springs is ready to help your child manage their respiratory health. Call us at (225) 665-6677 for a timely screening today.