Many lung ailments exist, but asthma is among the most common ones diagnosed in children. If you suspect childhood asthma in Commack, NY, it is time to visit Bezack Pediatric Pulmonology. Dr. Brian Bezack is your local trusted Pediatric Pulmonologist who can give your child the care, proper diagnosis, and treatment they need.

What Causes Asthma in Children?

Asthma is a result of a reaction from the immune system. Your immune system protects the body from bacterial or viral invasion. When foreign substances your body doesn't recognize invade the immune system, it may react by turning on itself. Therefore, if your child is exposed to common allergens, such as pet dander, dust, mold, smoke, or other environmental factors, it may cause their airways to constrict. While there is no cure for asthma, proper management, and timely intervention is essential for helping your child have a good quality of life and reduce flare-ups.

How Can Doctors Help with Asthma in Commack, NY?

When you bring your child in for care at Bezack Pediatric Pulmonology, Dr. Bezack will work to figure out the potential trigger. Some children may react to physical exertion, but many respond to allergens. That is why allergen testing through skin and/or blood tests is essential to finding the trigger. A pulmonary function test measures peak flow measurements that assess overall lung function. An exercise challenge can test if asthma comes from strenuous activity. Testing can also check if the airways are reacting to an infection or inflammation.

Once it's clear that your child has asthma, Dr. Bezack will prescribe inhalers that can deliver medicine directly to your child's lungs during a reaction. However, long-term therapies like sublingual immunotherapy can help increase resistance to allergens.

What Can You Do at Home?

When dealing with pediatric asthma in Commack, NY, expect to make some lifestyle adjustments at home. Ensure your child understands how to use their inhaler correctly, especially if they have an attack when away from you. Keep your home as clean as possible to ensure no home triggers exacerbate your child's condition. Ensure your home is free from mold, as that could be one of the most toxic and easiest triggers of an asthma flare-up. When pollen is high, keep windows and doors closed. Ensure your HVAC system gets regular service so air ducts and filters are clean.

The team at Bezack Pediatric Pulmonology is here for your asthmatic child. Dr. Brian Bezack has the expertise to help you effectively manage childhood asthma in Commack, NY. If you want to learn more about this issue, please call us at (631) 499-1298 and make an appointment today.