Childhood Asthma: How to Manage Asthma Attacks – With Dr. Ghada Salah El-Sayyad

Childhood asthma is one of the most common chronic illnesses in children. It directly affects a child’s ability to breathe, play, sleep, and enjoy a normal life. Dr. Ghada Salah El-Sayyad, pediatric specialist, emphasizes that properly managing asthma attacks can prevent serious complications and allow children to live safely and actively.

 What Is Asthma in Children?

Asthma is a chronic inflammation of the airways, leading to narrowing of the respiratory passages and increased mucus production, making breathing difficult.
It often appears in early childhood and is characterized by recurring episodes of coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

 Key Symptoms of Asthma in Children:

• Wheezing when breathing, especially at night or during physical activity

• Frequent coughing, worse at night or when laughing or crying

• Shortness of breath or difficulty inhaling deeply

• Quick fatigue during exercise or play

• Chest retractions (visible pulling in of muscles during breathing)

 When Is an Asthma Attack an Emergency?

According to Dr. Ghada Salah El-Sayyad, emergency care is needed if:

• Lips or nails turn bluish

• The child is too breathless to talk or play

• The usual rescue inhaler doesn’t work

• Breathing is extremely fast and the child appears exhausted

 How to Manage Asthma Attacks:

1. Identify and Avoid Triggers:

• Dust, pet dander, smoke, strong perfumes

• Sudden weather changes or respiratory infections

2. Use Rescue Inhalers Properly:

• Should always be available at home and school

• Use a spacer device for younger children for more effective delivery

3. Follow the Preventive Treatment Plan:

• Prescribed by the doctor, to be taken regularly

• Often includes low-dose corticosteroid inhalers for long-term control

4. Monitor Symptoms Daily:

• Track frequency and severity of symptoms

• Note response to medication and when to follow up with the doctor

 Dr. Ghada Salah El-Sayyad’s Home Tips to Prevent Attacks:

• Ventilate the home regularly and reduce dust

• Use allergy-proof covers for pillows and mattresses

• Absolutely avoid smoking around the child

• Encourage appropriate physical activity, such as swimming

• Keep up with routine vaccinations to protect the lungs