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Warning signs for asthma in children Of the 14.6 million Americans suffering with asthma, approximately 5 million are children. Unfortunately, this number has been growing recently. Doctors surmise that the increased time children spend playing video games, watching TV and surfing the Internet inside their homes may be to blame. The place where children ought to feel safest, the home, is where some allergens, like dust mites, thrive best. However, not all cases of asthma are caused by allergies. In any case, the prevalence of asthma suggests that we ought to pay close attention to "warning signs." This is especially true when dealing with young children. Often, symptoms may be similar to those of colds or respiratory infections, making an accurate diagnosis difficult. How does asthma work? There are basically two typical situations. During an "acute" asthma attack (a short-term but intense episode) muscles tighten around a person's "windpipe" (or, trachea). The lining of the windpipe swells and becomes filled with mucus, making it difficult or almost impossible to breathe.

Some children and adults may suffer "chronic" asthma -- meaning milder symptoms which make breathing uncomfortable on a daily, long-term basis. Signs of potential trouble include: a persistent cough, which may be worse at night or especially, early in the morning frequent wheezing shortness of breath or rapid breathing longer time spent breathing out than breathing in tightness in the chest loss of energy sucking in of the chest skin, noticeable between the ribs and at the front of the neck frequent bronchial illnesses resembling colds when play and exercise trigger the above-mentioned symptoms If you notice any of these "red flags," especially if there is a family history of asthma, please consult a doctor. Untreated, asthma can be a serious threat. Proper treatment through medication and preventive measures (like covering pillows and mattresses with plastic covers) can alleviate children's suffering and may keep the condition under control. Having a plan to deal with asthma means that it doesn't have to interfere with kids' plans for fun. Resources to help parents and care givers cope with asthma: The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA); (800) 7-ASTHMA AAFA's Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter, P.O. Box 1094, Blue Bell, PA19422; (610) 630-8050. The American Lung Association's Family Guide to Asthma & Allergies (238 pages; Little, Brown. $19.95) Thomas F. Plaut, M.D. One Minute Asthma (32 pages; Pedipress, Inc. $5.95) This article is intended to make parents and caregivers aware of some of the important issues concerning asthma. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. And always, if there is ever a question or a concern about any aspect of a child's health or well-being, please consult a doctor. -- by Kelly Turlish Kelly interned at WHYY as a senior majoring in communications at Juniata College in Huntington, PA.