Exercise-induced asthma in children

Exercise-induced asthma (EIA) is a relatively common problem in children, but may not be recognized because children either do not report their symptoms, or avoid activities that cause it. Clarifying the diagnosis of EIA, in particular separating EIA from other causes of exertional dyspnea, is essential. Treating EIA in children is challenging because of the nature of their physical activities, which are often not planned, and may be prolonged. Keeping children active is an important goal to ensure healthy physical and social development. Many children with EIA are well managed with an inhaled short-acting β2-adrenoceptor agonist before exercise or if symptoms develop. The approach to more troublesome EIA depends on whether the child has persistent asthma and requires better prevention, or the EIA is an isolated clinical problem. The options for treatment also depend on the timing, frequency, and duration of activity that induces EIA. Options include the addition of a cromone, a leukotriene modifier, an inhaled corticosteroid, or switching to use a long-acting β2-adrenoceptor agonist. The use of warm-up exercises has been shown to be helpful by using the refractory period but is not practical for most children with EIA. A final consideration for successful management of EIA in children is that the delivery of medication needs to be age-appropriate.