Childhood Asthma: Symptoms, Triggers, Treatment & School Management

By Dashvanth Healthcare Medical Team · Reviewed by our specialists · East Delhi

What Is Childhood Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition of the airways causing recurrent episodes of wheeze, cough, chest tightness, and breathlessness. It is the most common chronic disease in children, affecting 10–15% of Indian children. Asthma is very manageable — with proper treatment, children can be fully active.

Recognising Asthma in Children

• Recurrent wheeze (a whistling sound when breathing out)
• Nighttime or early morning cough
• Exercise-induced cough or breathlessness
• Cough after exposure to cold air, dust, or smoke
• Frequent chest infections or "always has a cold"

Common Triggers

• Respiratory infections (most common trigger in children)
• Dust mites, mould, cockroaches
• Pet dander (dogs, cats)
• Tobacco smoke (active and passive)
• Air pollution (Delhi children: high risk due to PM2.5 levels)
• Cold air and exercise
• Emotional stress

Treatment

Reliever (Blue inhaler — Salbutamol)

Used for immediate symptom relief. Should not be needed more than 3 times/week (if needed more, controller therapy is inadequate).

Controller (Brown/Red/Purple inhaler — ICS)

Inhaled corticosteroids taken daily reduce airway inflammation and prevent attacks. Side effects at standard doses are minimal.

Inhaler Technique

Children under 8 need a spacer device for effective inhaler use. Correct technique is crucial — ask our paediatrician to demonstrate.