Baby and Toddler Sickness: Asthma

What is asthma, and what the causes, symptoms and treatment options are.

Asthma is a condition of the lungs where a person’s airways can tighten and become swollen inside, making it hard for them to breathe.

Asthma can be triggered by allergies, illness (such as cold and flu symptoms) or weather changes, among other things. A child who has parents with allergies or asthma has a higher chance of developing the condition. It can be difficult to diagnose babies and toddlers with the condition as they can’t communicate like older children, however, if you notice your child has a persistent coughing, particularly at night and after exercise, experiences breathlessness or is wheezing (noisy breathing), take them to the GP for a consultation.

For more advice on keeping kids healthy, visit kidshealth.org.nz.