The first asthmatic experience for a child can be frightening-heavy wheezing, a tight chest, and shortness of breath can quickly catch an active, young body off-guard. But after the first asthma attack (and with the advances made in diagnosing asthma, sometimes even before it appears with an attack) children don't need to be frightened and parents can ease their own worries. Asthma treatment has evolved into a very comprehensive process and the condition can be made manageable for even the most energetic of youngsters.

If your child has asthma, he or she is not alone. In the United States, asthma affects 22 million people. It is the most common chronic disease of childhood. Today, 6 million children have asthma.

With the help of their medical care providers, routine monitoring, and proven treatments, they are still able to enjoy vibrant, healthy lives.

Typical changes in the airways include:

Inflammation

Recent research has shown that inflammation of the lining of the airways is the most common feature of asthma. When they are stimulated, certain cells lining the airways release chemical substances (mediators) which lead to inflammation. This causes the airway lining to swell and narrow. The inflammation may last for weeks following an episode. Most people with asthma have some degree of inflammation all of the time. Some long-term control medications can help prevent and reduce inflammation.

Increased Sensitivity

Another characteristic of asthma is increased sensitivity of the airways. When inflammation occurs in the airways, the airways become more sensitive. When the airways are more sensitive, your child is more likely to have asthma symptoms when exposed to things that make asthma worse. When there is less inflammation, the airways are less sensitive and your child is less likely to have asthma symptoms when exposed to things that make asthma worse.

Airway Obstruction

In addition to inflammation, further airway obstruction sometimes occurs with asthma. Obstruction is caused by tightening of muscles that surround the airways. This is also called bronchospasm. Bronchospasm causes further narrowing of the inflamed airways.

Inhaled quick relief medications are generally very effective in reversing the bronchospasm.

In some children with asthma, the mucus glands in the airways produce excessive, thick mucus, further obstructing the airways.