On 15th May 2024, renowned paediatrician Dr. Hui Hon-lam shared valuable knowledge about childhood asthma on the RTHK programme [Gathering Hong Kong], with everyone. Here are some excerpts from the programme:
The differences between childhood asthma and adult asthma.
Question: Children's asthma and adult asthma are different in several ways.
A: The prevalence of asthma among children in Hong Kong ranges from 7% to 10%, whilst that among adults is 5%.Although the symptoms experienced during an asthma attack are similar in both children and adults—such as chest tightness, breathlessness after exercise, chest pain, a blocked nose, coughing, wheezing, excessive mucus production in the airways and difficulty falling asleep—the pattern and frequency of attacks differ.Children are more sensitive to allergens, and as their bodies are still developing, they are more prone to asthma attacks. Some children may outgrow their asthma after puberty, but it is also possible for the condition to recur. Asthma in adults is usually persistent and requires long-term treatment to control symptoms.
Symptoms and diagnosis of childhood asthma
Question: What are the symptoms of childhood asthma? Does "wheezing" necessarily mean someone has asthma?
A: When children have asthma attacks, their airways swell and produce excess mucus, causing breathing difficulties. Symptoms include persistent coughing, repeated coughing during exercise or laughing/crying, worsened coughing after a cold, needing to stop for breath during activity, avoiding sports or social events, difficulty sleeping, shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness, wheezing, indrawing of the chest, rapid breathing, tight neck and chest muscles, feeling weak or tired, and difficulty eating. Not every child's asthma symptoms are the same; they may have only one or two, or multiple symptoms.
The age of asthma onset and influencing factors
Question: Asthma commonly starts at what age? What factors influence a child's onset of asthma?
A: Asthma can occur at any age, but it is most common in childhood, with most children who have asthma experiencing their first symptoms before the age of 5. Factors that can worsen asthma include respiratory infections, air pollutants, allergens, physical activity, changes in weather, or cold air.
Treatments for childhood asthma
Question: What medications can help with asthma? Is there any chance of a complete cure?
A: Treatments for asthma include identifying and avoiding triggers, alongside medication. Commonly used medications include bronchodilators, inhaled steroids, anti-leukotrienes, and asthma biologics. As children grow, their asthma symptoms may improve, but asthma is currently incurable. Airway inflammation may not completely disappear and can recur later.
The impact of participating in sports activities on asthma
Question: It is heard that children with asthma should participate more in sports activities, is this true?
A: When children have asthma, suitable physical activity is beneficial for them, as it helps to strengthen their physique and lung function. It is important to choose appropriate activities and learn how to manage asthma during exercise.
How can parents reduce the chances of their child's asthma attacks?
Question: Parents can take a number of steps to reduce the chances of their child having an asthma attack.
A: Parents should plan carefully and avoid asthma triggers such as cold viruses, weather changes, strenuous physical activity, and environmental allergens. Avoid exposing children to smoky environments, encourage them to be active, maintain a healthy weight, and seek medical advice when necessary.
Dr. Xu Hanlin's sharing has given us a deeper understanding of childhood asthma and provided valuable advice to help parents better care for children with asthma.
Source: RTHK Programme [Greater Hong Kong] (15 May 2024):
