Respiratory Care Specialist

Great Destinations Pediatrics

A Private Pediatric Practice & Board Certified Pediatricians located in Peoria, AZ

Does your child cough, seem congested, or wheeze while they play? It could be allergies, asthma, or an acute infection. Whatever the cause, the team at Great Destinations Pediatrics in Peoria, Arizona, can help your child breathe easier with pediatric respiratory care. Schedule an appointment with Karen Prentice, DO, FAAP, Kristin Shepherd, MD, FAAP, Robyn Alfeche MD FAAP, and their pediatric team online or on the phone today.

623-232-9417

Respiratory Care Q & A

What are signs my child needs respiratory care?

Your respiratory system includes your lungs, nose, mouth, and air passages between them. Many different conditions can affect respiratory system function, making it difficult to breathe when active or at rest.

Children are at risk of developing chronic and acute respiratory conditions, from allergies and asthma to lung infections like bronchiolitis. As a parent, it’s important to familiarize yourself with signs of illness in your child. Signs that your child may need respiratory care include:

Coughing
Wheezing
Chest tightness
Shortness of breath
Sore throat
Nasal congestion
Headache

Other symptoms, like itchy or watery eyes, could indicate environmental allergies. If your child shows signs of severe illness, like difficulty breathing or fever, contact the office as soon as possible.

What are common conditions that require respiratory care?

Two common respiratory conditions found in children are allergies and asthma. The providers at Great Destinations Pediatrics diagnose children of all ages with these conditions and develop treatment plans to reduce their symptoms and help them live active lifestyles.

Allergies

Allergies occur when your body’s immune system mistakenly attacks otherwise harmless substances. Among the most common allergens are pollen, mold spores, pet dander, and foods like nuts and milk. Allergy treatments can include avoiding triggers and taking medication to reduce your body’s immune response.

Asthma

Asthma is a common respiratory condition affecting children. It develops when the airways become inflamed and narrow, causing breathing difficulties and asthma attacks. Kids with asthma often need medication to reduce inflammation. They should always carry rescue inhalers, especially if they’re active or play sports.

How are acute respiratory conditions treated?

Allergies and asthma are chronic conditions. The Great Destinations Pediatrics team partners with children and their parents to keep symptoms at bay. But children are susceptible to acute respiratory conditions too.

Pulmonary infections can develop if your child is exposed to bacteria and viruses, even the common cold. The team diagnoses many different respiratory infections, like pneumonia, bronchitis, and bronchiolitis. Treatments can include rest, at-home care, and prescription antibiotics, depending on the infection.

Keep your child healthy and safe with respiratory care at Great Destinations Pediatrics. Schedule an appointment online today or call the office to learn more.

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