Q: My child has been diagnosed with asthma. What now?

Ask Our Expert About Childhood Asthma

About Our Expert

Robert W. Miller, M.D., is a pediatric pulmonologist at Lehigh Valley Health Network.

Practicing Medicine Since

1981

Education

B.A. in Literature, 1974, Colgate University
Premedical, 1972-74, Temple University
M.D., 1978, Temple University Medical School

Residency in Pediatrics

State University of New York Health Science Center, Syracuse (Chief Resident 1980-81)

Fellowship in Pediatric Pulmonology

Children's Hospital National Medical Center, Washington, DC

Board Certification

Board certified in Pediatrics and Pediatric Pulmonology

Honors and Awards

Faculty Teaching Award, State University of New York Health Science Center
Golden Apple Award, Children's Hospital National Medical Center
Pediatric Fellowship Award, American Lung Association Affiliates of the National Capitol Area
Internship Teaching Award, State University of New York Health Science Center

• My child has been diagnosed with asthma. What now?
• How common is asthma?
• What is asthma?
• Can asthma be cured? Can you outgrow asthma?
• How do I get started?

Q: My child has been diagnosed with asthma. What now?

The following questions are representative of the concerns which parents and/or their children with asthma have when I see them for the first time:

• My teenaged daughter wants to play soccer, but she keeps wheezing and coughing when she tries to run. Should I stop her from playing sports??
• My 7-year-old son missed 30 days of school last year because of asthma problems. Is there anything my husband and I can do to avoid this happening this school year?
• My 13-month-old daughter was diagnosed with asthma by her family doctor. I thought infants are too young to have asthma?
• My 10-year-old son is miserable. He cannot play with his friends because he starts coughing. He wants to play outside but I am worried about him. What can I do?

There are several things that I initially review with families at their first asthma appointment. But, the most important thing I want them to know is that asthma, in almost all instances, is very controllable. My goal as their doctor is to help their child to be able to lead a fully active and healthy life.

Q: How common is asthma?

A: Asthma is the most common chronic childhood disease in the United States. It is estimated that there are approximately five million children in this country with asthma. Untreated asthma is the most common chronic disease causing school abscenses.

The financial and emotional impact of untreated asthma is great. Obesity, depression, poor self-esteem, poor school performance and family stress all can result from untreated asthma.

Q: What is asthma?

A: There is a lot not known about asthma, but through ongoing research, it's causes and the best treatment options are immerging. To the best of our knowledge, asthma is the chronic inflammation of the bronchial breathing tubes. At times, "triggers" may stimulate these airways so that they become swollen and filled with mucous.

These "triggers" can be viral-respiratory illnesses ("colds"); exercise; exposure to certain odors like paint or perfume; allergic responses to certain things like pollen or cats; stress; tobacco smoke; weather extremes.

Q: Can asthma be cured? Can you outgrow asthma?

A: In virtually all instances asthma is controllable. Many children will get to the point that they don't need to use asthma therapy on a regular basis, although some may need to return to therapy if their symptoms flare again. Controlling asthma means that your child will be able to play sports, not miss school due to asthma flare-ups, and will be able to keep "attacks" under control.

Therapy typically consists of several aspects. It may include one or multiple medications along with a written plan that your physician and you agree upon. This approach will give you (and your child) the ability to help manage your child's asthma.

Education about asthma is crucial for your child (age appropriate) and yourself. The more your family knows about this condition, the better will be your ability to manage it.

Q: How do I get started?

A:

• First - make an appointment with your child's doctor to discuss your concerns and questions about asthma. Be sure to write down your questions before you meet and bring them with you.
• Discuss with your physician what course of action you should take in terms of asthma management and follow-up.
• You and/or your child's physician may decide to ask for a consultation with a Pediatric Asthma Specialist (typically a board certified Pediatric Pulmonologist - this is a pediatrician who specializes in taking care of infants, children and adolescents with lung diseases; or a Pediatric Allergist).
• If you or a family member smokes, this a great time to speak with your own physician about quitting. It is good for your health and it is good for your child's health.

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