Asthma symptoms in children under 5

Common asthma signs and symptoms in children under 5 include:

• Cough
• Wheezing, a high-pitched, whistle-like sound when exhaling
• Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
• A tight, uncomfortable feeling in the chest

The severity and patterns of symptoms may vary:

• Worsening of symptoms at night
• Short periods of coughing and wheezing between periods of time with no symptoms
• Frequent or chronic symptoms with episodes of worse wheezing and coughing
• Seasonal changes based on prevalent infections or allergy triggers

Asthma symptoms may be triggered or worsened by certain events:

• Colds or other respiratory infections
• Allergy-causing agents (allergens), such as dust, pet dander or pollen
• Activity or exercise
• In infants, feeding
• Exposure to cigarette smoke or other airborne irritants
• Strong emotional reactions, such as crying or laughing
• Gastrointestinal reflux
• Changes or extremes in weather

Asthma emergencies

Severe asthma attacks can be life-threatening and require emergency room treatment. Signs and symptoms of an asthma emergency in children under age 5 include:

• Gasping for air
• Breathing in so hard that the abdomen is sucked under the ribs
• Trouble speaking because of restricted breathing