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Lillian M. Beard, M.D, a Fellow of the American
Academy of Pediatrics, is an associate clinical
professor at the George Washington University School
of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, D.C.
She is a frequent guest expert and spokesperson on national
television programs, discussing issues related to children's health.
Dr. Beard practices pediatrics in Washington, D.C.
Q: My doctor diagnosed my infant as pre-asthmatic. How serious is
A: Asthma, a chronic inflammatory disorder of the respiratory airways, is
characterized by coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and difficulty
breathing. It is a serious, sometimes life threatening disorder which, if
managed properly, can be controlled.
If there is a strong family history, especially on the mother's side, of
allergies and asthma and the presence of certain environmental conditions (triggers) such as tobacco smoke, household pets, and dust mites, there is a greater probability for the children to develop the disorder. Perhaps your pediatrician is letting you know that your baby may be predisposed to asthma, based on your family history. You cannot alter your family tree, but you can make your home environment unwelcoming to the usual asthma and allergen triggers.
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