What is a common respiratory condition seen in children?

Asthma is commonly seen in children and is characterized by chronic inflammation of the airways, leading to difficulty breathing, wheezing, and coughing. It often presents with episodes of bronchoconstriction triggered by various factors such as allergens, respiratory infections, exercise, or environmental irritants. Asthma is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions among children and has significant implications for their health and quality of life, making its recognition and management essential in pediatric care.

While conditions like cystic fibrosis, pneumonia, and bronchiolitis are also significant respiratory issues in pediatrics, asthma stands out due to its chronic nature and prevalence. Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder affecting both the lungs and digestive system; pneumonia can be acute and is often a complication of infections; bronchiolitis primarily affects infants and is a viral infection leading to inflammation in the small airways. In contrast, asthma typically develops in older children and can persist into adulthood, making it a key focus in pediatric respiratory care.