Asthma is a condition of chronic lung inflammation, with recurrent symptoms, or exacerbations, triggered by upper respiratory infections, pollen and exercise. The symptoms of asthma include recurrent cough, wheezing and respiratory distress. Children with asthma may suffer from other diseases, such as infections, allergies and gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Infections
Children with asthma may have infections both as triggers for their asthma attacks and as a result of the chronic inflammation in their lungs. Pneumonia, an infection of the lung, is a common condition in children with asthma. According to the Nemours Foundation's website, KidsHealth, wheezing -- a high-pitched sound made by air moving through narrowed airways -- is a common symptom of both asthma and viral pneumonia. Children with asthma are also more likely to suffer from complications of the influenza, or flu, virus. Treatment for asthma includes rapid-relief medications, called bronchodilators, to quickly open up the airways during an asthma attack. Steroids may also be prescribed to prevent asthma exacerbations.
Allergies
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, over half of all asthma sufferers in the United States have allergic asthma, or asthma triggered by allergies. Common allergens include pollen, dust, animal dander and smoke. Symptoms of allergies and asthma may be the same, with both causing difficulty breathing, wheezing and cough. Other signs and symptoms of allergies include hives, itchy eyes and runny nose. Avoidance of allergens and control of symptoms with antihistamines decrease allergic reactions and help prevent asthma attacks.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
According to the Cleveland Clinic, more than 75 percent of asthma patients also suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. This condition involves the abnormal backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus. Symptoms of GERD in children include wheezing, cough, difficulty breathing and nausea with vomiting. Treatment for GERD involves avoidance of spicy and acidic foods, avoidance of foods that contain caffeine, and medications that control the secretion of acid in the stomach.
