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Bronx children are suffering from asthma. The right treatment can make a difference

Wheezing after playing outside. Shortness of breath while singing along to a favorite song. Tightness or soreness in the chest. If you’ve noticed these symptoms in your child, they may have asthma.

Asthma is a long-term lung condition that causes bronchial tubes (or airways) to spasm and swell. Imagine tightly squeezing a paper towel roll, then trying to blow air through it. When you have asthma, your airways narrow and make it more difficult to breath in and out. Asthma can be deadly and there is no cure, but effective treatment can relieve symptoms and prevent asthma attacks.

Asthma affects around 1 in 10 kids in America

Around 7.5 million children in the U.S. are affected by asthma, with the Bronx having the highest rates in the country. Studies show that asthma largely impacts the poor, the elderly, and Black, Hispanic and Indigenous Americans, groups that largely populate our neighborhoods. Inner-city kids are more likely to be born prematurely and have more exposure to allergens like air pollution, dust, certain foods, secondhand smoke, and cockroaches and other pests. Other factors, such as genetics, racial discrimination and access to health care also contribute to higher rates of asthma.  

Asthma causes and symptoms

Although the exact cause of asthma is unknown, symptoms often begin in childhood before the immune system has fully developed. Triggers vary from person to person and a number of factors may impact how children’s lungs develop. Allergens, like dust or pet dander, are common causes. Some people also develop asthma symptoms in response to certain foods or to exercise. Family history, exposure to allergens, and even catching a cold or other virus can make it more likely for kids to develop the condition. 

Symptoms of asthma vary from person to person. Your child may experience bouts of coughing, feeling weak with low energy, wheezing (whistling noise when breathing), irritable, and have trouble eating or drinking. During an asthma attack (when symptoms get worse), cough and shortness of breath may worsen. Children may struggle to breath, speak, and may become pale or blue. When this happens, it’s important to seek medical help immediately.

The right treatment can make a difference

Left untreated, pediatric asthma can cause children to miss school, see the doctor more often or even be hospitalized. It can also cause permanent lung damage. Asthma is not curable but can be well managed with effective treatment.  

The Asthma Center uses a full team approach to provide the best care for patients. Your team will include a board-certified physician in allergy and immunology who specializes in treating asthma, a registered nurse, respiratory therapist and medical assistant. After a diagnosis of asthma is confirmed, our team develops a plan of action for each patient to treat and control the disease. 

Our asthma specialists at the Center for Comprehensive Care work with patients to create an asthma action plan, which may include: 

  • Diagnostic allergy testing for asthma triggers 
  • Pulmonary function testing (breathing tests) 
  • Guidance on medication and treatment 
  • Tips to avoid triggers 
  • Knowing what to do when symptoms get worse 

With the right management plan, children with asthma can get the condition under control and live their best life possible. If you, your child, or someone you know is struggling with asthma, reach out to us at the Center for Comprehensive Care by phone at (718) 960-3730, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.