How is asthma in children treated?
After the diagnosis of pediatric asthma is established, children are categorized into groups by the frequency of their symptoms. Asthma education is then initiated to help families and patients to understand symptoms and treatment plans. Issues of environmental control are discussed that relate to specific family conditions. Medications are then often prescribed for long term control or for quick relief. Long-term control medicines are used daily and help to control inflammation. This group includes: • inhaled steroids • inhaled cromolyn sodium • inhaled nedocromil sodium • long acting beta agonists • oral medications called leukotriene modifiers • oral theophylline • IgE blockers Quick relief medications are given to relieve acute or new symptoms. These include: • inhaled or oral albuterol • oral steroids Goals of asthma treatment include: • Closely monitor asthma symptoms and maintain a scheduled plan of asthma care. • Treat any additional physical problems that may cause asthma, for
