Different types of Asthma Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Different types of Asthma - Essay Example Asthma in children can be hard to diagnose. There are other conditions that can have similar symptoms and sometimes these conditions can be combined with asthma. Some common conditions with the same symptoms are rhinitis, sinusitis, acid reflux, vocal cord dysfunction, and respiratory tract infections, such as bronchiolitis and RSV.Doctors use the same tests to diagnose asthma in children ages 5 and up as they do with adults. The test is called a spirometry, it measures how quickly and how much air your child can exhale. The doctor will also try to find out if the asthma is caused by the child’s allergies. An allergy skin test will be given to check for allergy-causing substances, such as animal dander, mold or dust mites, and observed for signs of an allergic reaction.The doctor will make an asthma action plan and depending on the type and severity of asthma in the child the doctor might prescribe a medication. The purpose of treating asthma is to prevent symptoms and to trea t an asthma attack that is in progress. The goal after treatment is that the child will have little to no symptoms, fewer flare-ups, no limitations on daily activities, and few side effects from the medications.  Long-term medications will be used to treat the inflammation that causes the symptoms of asthma. The doctor would prescribe an inhaled corticosteroid, such as Qvar. Leukotriene modifiers such a Singulair will help to prevent the asthma symptoms for up to 24 hours. Sometimes a medication will be needed that is combined inhaler.