How Does Asthma Affect Children Differently from Adults?
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Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways, making breathing difficult. While it can occur at any age, there are significant differences between asthma in adults vs. children. In children, asthma is often triggered by allergens like pollen, dust, and pet dander. In adults, asthma triggers can be more varied and include factors like occupational exposure to irritants, stress, and smoking. Additionally, asthma can be more difficult to diagnose in an adult compared to a child. Understanding these differences is critical for effective diagnosis, treatment, and symptom relief.
At Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers, board-certified physician and Beverly Hills pulmonologist Dr. Avi Ishaaya understands the unique complexities of both pediatric and adult asthma, providing a comprehensive array of diagnostic tools and treatment options for asthma patients of almost any age. Here, you'll find information about some of the most notable differences between adult and pediatric asthma.
Why is diagnosing adult asthma harder than kids' asthma?
Diagnosing asthma in adults can be more challenging than in children due to overlapping symptoms with other respiratory conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). With a knowledgeable provider and advanced testing options, however, patients who suspect adult asthma can get a more complete and accurate picture of their respiratory health. Some of the types of asthma testing offered by Dr. Ishaaya include:
- Pulmonary function tests (PFT)
- Methacholine challenge
- Inflammation assessment with nitric oxide
In some cases, Dr. Ishaaya may also recommend allergy testing for asthma patients, which can help to identify specific allergens that might be triggering asthma symptoms.
Are asthma symptoms worse in adults compared to children?
Asthma symptoms can often be more severe and persistent in adults compared to children. Adults are more likely to experience continuous symptoms, such as shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing, especially at night. This can be attributed to factors like longer exposure to environmental triggers and a higher likelihood of having other chronic conditions that exacerbate asthma. Still, children can experience severe asthma symptoms as well. Regardless of your age, Dr. Ishaaya emphasizes the importance of regular monitoring and proactive management to prevent severe asthma attacks and worsening asthma symptoms overall.
Is asthma in adults treated differently than in kids?
In many cases, treatment for asthma in adults requires a more comprehensive approach compared to children. For example, adults may need higher doses of medications to manage their symptoms effectively. Additionally, lifestyle modifications — such as quitting smoking, managing stress, and avoiding occupational triggers — can play a significant role in adult asthma management. Following an in-depth consultation, allergy testing, and evaluation, Dr. Ishaaya will recommend the most appropriate asthma treatment plan for you or your child, which may include:
- Medications to reduce inflammation
- Rescue inhaler as needed
- Nebulizer breathing treatments
- Allergy testing and treatments
Can adult asthma be improved with lifestyle changes?
In many cases, yes, lifestyle changes can have a profound impact on managing asthma in adults. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding known triggers are essential components of asthma management. Dr. Ishaaya may recommend integrating these changes into daily routines to reduce the frequency and severity of asthma symptoms. For instance, stress management techniques — like yoga and meditation — can often help in controlling asthma, as stress is a common asthma attack trigger for many adults. In addition to maintaining healthy habits to reduce asthma symptoms, adult and pediatric asthma patients should:
- Follow up regularly as scheduled
- Adhere to their asthma medications and/or treatment protocol
- Be proactive about minimizing exposure to asthma triggers
Get relief from your asthma at any age with advanced breathing testing and treatments in Beverly Hills, CA
While asthma in adults shares some similarities with childhood asthma, there are some key differences in triggers, severity, and management strategies that highlight the need for a customized approach to asthma treatment. Whether you or your child is struggling with acute or chronic asthma, we are here to help. For more information on asthma management in Beverly Hills, CA, call to schedule your consultation with board-certified physician and pulmonology specialist Dr. Avi Ishaaya today.