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Asthma Attacks in Children

An asthma attack is a period when the airways in the lungs become narrowed and inflamed. A child may cough, wheeze, feel chest tightness or have trouble breathing.

Asthma attacks can be triggered by viral infections, allergens, exercise, smoke, cold air, pollution and other airway irritants. Triggers differ from one child to another.

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AAP Guide to Asthma Attacks in Children

The AAP guide below explains what to watch for, how to follow the asthma plan, and when your child needs urgent care.

AAP Symptom CheckerAsthma attack

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Your child’s rescue medicine is not helping as expected.
  • Your child remains short of breath, wheezy or unable to do normal activities.
  • Symptoms return quickly after treatment.
  • You are using rescue medicine more often than the child’s asthma plan recommends.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child is struggling for each breath or cannot speak normally.
  • Your child’s lips or face turn blue or gray.
  • Your child becomes very sleepy, collapses or stops breathing.
  • You think your child has a life-threatening asthma attack.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on coughs and breathing

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