Reasons to see a specialist
- Recent severe asthma episode or allergic reaction
- Any visits to the hospital or emergency room for breathing or allergy-related issues
- Frequent need for oral steroid tablets or syrup
- Sleep disturbances, not able to exercise, or missing school often
- Complicating conditions (i.e. sinusitis, acid reflux, eczema, obesity or frequent infections)
- Medication side effects
- Seasonal symptoms getting worse
What can I expect?
- ToĀ be seen by a specialist right away
- To be fully taken care of
- The issue to be managed in its entirety
- Intentional time with our specialist (similar toĀ a family doctor)
What do specialists provide?
- Help to identify the childās allergy and asthma triggers.
- State of the art diagnostic testing and evaluation of lung function.
- Diagnosis of underlying lung disease or other respiratory conditions.
- Treadmill exercise testing when appropriate.
- Examination of the airways (flexible bronchoscopy) under anesthesia in appropriate circumstances.
- Knowledge of treatment options. A written treatment program with an action plan to help parents and the primary care provider respond more effectively to worsening symptoms.
- Ongoing monitoring of treatment goals.
- Effective communication with the primary care physician or nurse practitioner regarding the childās treatment and progress.
How do I know if my child’s asthma symptoms are uncontrolled?
The Childhood Asthma Control TestĀ is a way to help your child’s healthcare provider determine if your child’s asthma symptoms are well controlled. You can share the results with your child’s healthcare provider.
Take Asthma Quiz