Since the respiratory system in children is still developing, they are more vulnerable to various airway diseases, and the course of these illnesses may differ from those seen in adults. The goal of a pediatric pulmonologist is to identify the underlying causes of recurrent or persistent respiratory symptoms, improve the child’s breathing, and help restore their overall quality of life.
What conditions does a pediatric pulmonologist treat?
- Bronchial asthma – shortness of breath, wheezing, exertion-induced breathing difficulties
- Recurrent bronchitis or pneumonia
- Persistent, prolonged cough, especially at night or after physical activity
- Respiratory allergies, hay fever, allergic asthma
- Chronic respiratory diseases, such as cystic fibrosis
- Breathing pauses during sleep, snoring, suspected sleep apnea
- Suspected foreign body in the airways
- Breathing problems in premature infants
- Chronic shortness of breath, oxygen deficiency-related conditions
When should you see a pediatric pulmonologist?
- If your child has frequent or recurring respiratory illnesses
- If a cough lasts more than 4 weeks or does not respond to treatment
- If asthma-like symptoms (wheezing, shortness of breath, exercise-induced difficulty breathing) appear
- If your child frequently needs antibiotics for respiratory infections, but the symptoms keep returning
- If there are lingering complaints after pneumonia
- If your pediatrician recommends a specialist consultation
