Asthma Services for Children

718.246.8510

New York Methodist lung doctors recognize the unique characteristics of childhood asthma. In addition to a physical examination, the doctor will consider the family history of asthma, allergens and irritants (such as smoke) to which the child is exposed, severity of symptoms, and results from breathing tests.

Working with parents, the pediatricians (doctors who only treat children), pediatric pulmonologists (doctors who specialize in lung diseases), and pediatric allergists create an effective plan to manage the condition.

The physician may prescribe certain medications and devices which can include a peak flow meter to measure breathing, metered dose inhalers, spacers that attach to inhalers, nebulizers that deliver medication in a mist, and medication in tablet form.

For more information, call 718.246.8510.

Asthma Education

Asthma is a serious, sometimes life-threatening chronic respiratory disease that affects the quality of life of almost 25 million Americans, including an estimated seven million children. Although there is currently no cure for asthma, the disease can be controlled through medical treatment and management of environmental triggers.

With today's treatments, most people who have asthma are able to manage the disease. They may have few, if any, symptoms. They can live normal, active lives and sleep through the night without interruption from asthma. But patients need to be aware that even though they may feel fine, they still have the disease and it could flare up at any time. Patients should take an active role in managing their asthma. For successful, thorough, and ongoing treatment, strong partnerships between the patient and the doctor and other health care providers are important..

New York Methodist’s asthma educator serves as a bridge between patients and their families and physicians to enable better management. No physician referral is required and there is no cost for this service. Educational sessions offered include individual or groups sessions, led by a certified asthma educator. Registration is required.

Learn about:

• Asthma basics
• Asthma signs and symptoms
• Asthma triggers
• Exercise induced asthma
• Asthma medicines and medication administration techniques
• Using an asthma action plan
• Coping with an asthma emergencyIf you or your child is subject to frequent asthma episodes, the asthma is not under control. Our goal is to enable you or your child to lead an active and health life by controlling the asthma

The exact cause of asthma is not known. Researchers think some genetic and environmental factors interact to cause asthma, most often early in life. These factors include:

• An inherited tendency to develop allergies, called atopy
• Parents who have asthma
• Certain respiratory infections during childhood
• Contact with some airborne allergens or exposure to some viral infections