Asthma’s hidden toll: Chronic disease impacts more than breathing

Roughly 7 percent of children in the United States have asthma, which makes it one of the most common chronic diseases of childhood.

“That accounts for millions of children,” said Alyssa James, M.D., with Meritus Allergy & Asthma Specialists.

While asthma is often thought of as a condition marked by coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath, Dr. James said its effects reach far beyond physical symptoms. When asthma is not well controlled, it can affect childhood development socially, emotionally and academically.

Coughing and difficulty breathing don’t just mean a child might have to skip recess or sit out of gym class. It can mean missing school days, disrupted learning and falling behind academically. Frequent trips to the Emergency Department or Urgent Care can add emotional strain for both children and parents, along with financial stress.

Sleep disruption is another major concern. Asthma symptoms often worsen at night, causing children to wake up coughing or short of breath.

“Parents are also up during the night helping their child manage their asthma symptoms, so they often don’t get restful sleep as well,” Dr. James said.

Lack of sleep can affect a child’s mood, focus and behavior at school. Dr. James also noted the social isolation some children experience when they are unable to participate fully in sports, physical education or play with friends. Children with asthma are also at a higher risk of experiencing anxiety and depression.

“All of that adds up when a child is living with a chronic condition,” she said.

Asthma doesn’t look the same in every child, and Dr. James emphasized that it can be easily overlooked. Some families don’t realize that frequent coughing, especially at night or during exercise, may be a sign of asthma rather than just a lingering cold.

“I’ve had families tell me they didn’t know coughing could be a sign of asthma. They just thought it was how their child was,” she said.

After a referral from a primary care provider, the goal of specialty care is to gain control of asthma symptoms so they are milder, less frequent or don’t occur at all. Dr. James works with families to create individualized treatment plans based on a child’s symptoms, triggers and lifestyle.

“Asthma is very unique to each patient,” she said. “Every family is different, with their own goals and beliefs, and we try to be respectful of that while finding what works best.”

Treatment often starts with inhaled medications, which target inflammation in the lungs with fewer side effects than oral steroids. Some children may only need an inhaler before exercise, while others benefit from daily controller medications. In certain cases, additional therapies can help address immune system factors that contribute to symptoms.

Dr. James said one of the most rewarding parts of her work is seeing children thrive once their asthma is under control.

“When kids have been in the emergency room multiple times a year and then come back for follow-up visits sleeping better, staying out of the ER and participating in sports without stopping mid-game, it’s huge,” she said.

For parents who are unsure whether their child’s symptoms could be asthma, Dr. James encourages seeking an evaluation.

“There’s help available,” she said. “Kids with asthma can live a normal, active and healthy life.”

To learn more about Meritus Allergy & Asthma Specialists, visit www.meritushealth.com/AllergiesAsthma.