Our pulmonologists, allergists, and immunologists at University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital work with physicians and scientists in other specialties to discover and develop evidence-based treatments, and make them available for your child.

Asthma can be triggered by a variety of situations, including exposure to cold air or airborne irritants such as pollen and tobacco smoke, exercise, or certain medications. Its symptoms are associated with a number of other respiratory problems, some of which typically occur at the same time as asthma, such as the common cold or a viral infection. Depending on your child’s age, your medical team may use lung function tests (spirometry), X-ray, blood tests, and skin testing for allergies to diagnose asthma. They may also review your child’s medical history and symptoms.

It is important to work with your child’s medical team to create a plan so your child learns how to avoid asthma triggers and manage symptoms, as well as when to take action and what to do in case of an acute asthma attack. Your medical team can help educate your child in the proper use of inhalers and measurement devices such as peak flow meters so he or she can get the most benefit out of these important interventions.