Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases of childhood. An estimated 4 million children under 18 years old have had an asthma attack in the past 12 months, and many others have "hidden" or undiagnosed asthma. Asthma is the most common cause of school absenteeism due to chronic disease and the third-ranking cause of hospitalization among those younger than 15 years of age.

WHAT IS ASTHMA?
Asthma is an inflammatory condition of the bronchial airways. Exercise, allergies, upper respiratory infections, weather changes, or airborne irritants (such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, strong odors, aerosol sprays and paint fumes) may trigger an acute asthma exacerbation. The airways become over-active, producing increased mucus, mucosal swelling and muscle contraction. These changes produce airway obstruction, chest tightness, coughing and wheezing. Any child who has frequent coughing (especially at night), wheezing, or respiratory infections (pneumonia or bronchitis) should be evaluated for asthma.

HOW IS ASTHMA CONTROLLED?
Asthma can be controlled by following a medical management plan and by avoiding contact with environmental triggers (such as cigarette smoke). The flu vaccine will also help decrease the risk of an upper respiratory infection or pneumonia triggering a severe asthma exacerbation.

HOW WELL IS YOUR ASTHMA CONTROLLED?
Asthma can be classified into four different categories:
· Mild intermittent asthma - symptoms occurring less than two days a week or less than two nights per month
· Mild persistent asthma - symptoms occurring more than twice per week or two nights per month
· Moderate persistent asthma - symptoms occurring daily or more than one night per week
· Severe persistent asthma - symptoms continuously during the day or frequent symptoms at night

If you classify yourself or your child as anything more than a mild intermittent asthmatic, you should consult your physician to obtain better asthma control.

Dr. Sureka is a pediatrician with Methodist at Morton. She is a graduate of the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria. Dr. Sureka practiced medicine in Bloomington before joining Methodist Medical Group, where she provides outstanding healthcare for children, from newborns to teens.