1800 54 37 37​
Book an appointment

Asthma

Summary

Asthma in children is different from asthma in adults and should be managed using child-specific guidelines. While the number of asthma cases has stabilized in many developed countries, it remains a leading cause of illness and hospitalization in children.

Most children with asthma have mild, intermittent symptoms and do not need daily medication. For those who do require treatment, the goal is to use the lowest effective dose to maintain good symptom control. Treatment plans should be tailored to each child’s needs.

Doctors also consider other possible conditions, as well as environmental factors and medication adherence, especially in very young children or when high doses of inhaled corticosteroids are needed.

Diagnosis and When to Seek Help

If your child has frequent coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or tightness in the chest—especially at night or after physical activity—it’s important to see a doctor. Other signs of asthma include:

  • Coughing that worsens with exercise, cold air, or allergens
  • Frequent respiratory infections that take longer to clear
  • Difficulty keeping up with peers due to breathing issues

A doctor will diagnose asthma based on symptoms, medical history, and breathing tests, if appropriate for the child’s age. Since other conditions can mimic asthma, a thorough evaluation is needed, particularly in very young children.

Management

The goal of asthma treatment is to control symptoms, prevent flare-ups, and maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. Management includes:

  • Avoiding triggers such as smoke, dust, pet dander, or pollen.
  • Using medication as prescribed:
    • Reliever inhalers (short-acting bronchodilators) for quick symptom relief.
    • Preventer medications (inhaled corticosteroids) for children with frequent or persistent symptoms.
  • Creating an asthma action plan with a doctor to guide treatment at home.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Regular check-ups help ensure that asthma is well controlled and that medication doses remain appropriate. If symptoms worsen, frequent reliever medication use is needed, or nighttime symptoms increase, the treatment plan may need adjustment.

With proper management, most children with asthma can participate in normal activities, including sports and play, without limitations.

History and Exam

Key diagnostic factors

  • presence of risk factors
  • wheezing episode triggers
  • increased work of breathing
  • features of atopic disease

Other diagnostic factors

  • age>3 years
  • dry night-time cough
  • dyspnoea on exertion
  • expiratory wheezing

Risk factors

  • allergic sensitisation
  • atopic disease
  • respiratory tract infections in early life
  • serum eosinophilia

Diagnostic Investigations

1st investigations to order

  • spirometry
  • peak expiratory flow(PEF)
  • response to bronchodilator

Investigations to consider

  • airway challenge tests
  • exercise challenge test
  • FBC
  • sweat test

Emerging tests

  • fractional expired nitric oxide (FeNO)

Book an Appointment

    1 Reason for referral *

    2 Parent Surname *

    3 Patient First Name *

    4 Email *

    5 Patient Surname *

    6 Phone *

    7 Child’s date of birth *

    8 Address

    Other Related Conditions

    ASTHMA

    CONCERNS REGARDING GROWTH

    FEEDING PROBLEMS

    CONSTIPATION

    BED WETTING

    SEIZURES

    SLEEP DIFFICULTIES

    CHALLENGING BEHAVIOURS

    AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

    LEARNING DIFFICULTIES

    ADHD & Oppositional behaviours

    LANGUAGE DISORDERS

    TICS & TOURETTES DISORDER

    ANXIETY

    DEPRESSION

    INFECTIONS

    Contact Us

    medical
    dental
    PSYCHOLOGY
    1800 54 37 37​
    Book an appointment

    COPYRIGHT © 2025. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

      1 Reason for referral *

      2 Parent Surname *

      3 Patient First Name *

      4 Email *

      5 Patient Surname *

      6 Phone *

      7 Child’s date of birth *

      8 Address

      Social and emotional functioning refers to a child’s ability to understand, express, and manage their emotions, as well as to interact effectively with others. These skills are fundamental for building positive relationships, developing empathy, and coping with the everyday challenges of growing up.

      Children who experience difficulties in social and emotional functioning may struggle with recognizing their own feelings or those of others, regulating emotional responses, or responding appropriately in social situations. This can lead to challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem, difficulty making friends, or misunderstandings with peers and adults.

      In the school environment, social and emotional difficulties can impact a child’s engagement, cooperation, and overall learning experience. Emotional distress may manifest as withdrawal, irritability, or disruptive behaviour, which can further affect academic progress and peer relationships.

      Assessment of social and emotional functioning as part of a neuropsychological evaluation typically includes behavioural observations, standardized rating scales, and information gathered from parents, teachers, and sometimes the child. This comprehensive approach helps identify strengths and areas for support in emotional regulation, social skills, and adaptive behaviours.

      Understanding a child’s social-emotional profile allows for the development of tailored strategies to enhance emotional wellbeing, build resilience, and improve social communication. Early intervention and supportive environments can empower children to navigate their emotions more effectively, fostering confidence and meaningful connections. 

      At Offspring Health, we aim to provide transparent information about the costs involved in neurodevelopmental and educational assessments.

      Neuropsychological assessments typically involve multiple sessions that usually take between 8 and 16 hours in total, depending on the complexity and individual needs. Our hourly rate is $260, so the total cost typically ranges between $2,300 and $4,230.

      Fees generally cover:

      • Initial consultation and history gathering
      • Testing sessions where your child will complete various fun and interactive tasks
      • Liaison with schools or health professionals as needed
      • Comprehensive case analysis and report preparation
      • Feedback sessions with families and, where applicable, educators or other professionals

      Please note that standard neuropsychological assessments are generally not covered by Medicare. However, some assessments and therapy services may be funded through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) for eligible participants. We recommend discussing funding options with your NDIS planner or support coordinator prior to booking. Private health insurance may offer partial rebates depending on your level of coverage.

      What’s the next step?

      Please phone reception for a discussion about your needs or email psychology@offspringhealth.com