Yes, preschoolers can develop asthma!

“I'm still getting told from families and other physicians that you can't make a diagnosis of asthma until they're six. Why?  Why is this still happening? We can diagnose preschoolers with asthma.”  -- Dr. Tiffany WongJoin Dr. Mariam Hanna as she sits down with Dr. Tiffany Wong who pushes back on the persistent and unfounded skepticism about whether preschoolers can be diagnosed with asthma. Dr. Wong is an associate clinical professor at the University of British Columbia and the medical lead of the BC Children's Hospital allergy clinic. She covers the intricacies of diagnosing and managing preschool asthma, dispels common myths and emphasizes the importance of accurate diagnosis and effective management in young children.On this episode:Diagnosing Preschool Asthma:Dr. Wong clarifies the myths and realities of diagnosing asthma in preschool children. She emphasizes that a detailed medical history and physical examination can often suffice, debunking the misconception that spirometry is always necessary.Management Strategies:Gain insights into effective management strategies for preschool asthma. Dr. Wong discusses the importance of categorizing patients according to their risk of future exacerbations, which helps in tailoring treatment plans for both healthcare providers and families.Follow-Up Care:The critical role of regular follow-up in managing preschool asthma is highlighted. Dr. Wong stresses that continuous monitoring allows for better understanding of each patient's evolving clinical narrative and ensures timely adjustments to treatment plans.Empowering Families:Learn how to support families dealing with preschool asthma. Dr. Wong provides valuable tips on training families to recognize and report symptoms accurately, ensuring they are equipped to manage their child's condition effectively.Tune in to this episode for a deep dive into preschool asthma, with practical tips and expert insights for both healthcare providers and caregivers.Have an idea for the show or a comment, send us a text!Visit the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical ImmunologyFind an allergist using our helpful toolFind Dr. Hanna on X, previously Twitter, @PedsAllergyDoc or CSACI @CSACI_caThe Allergist is produced for CSACI by PodCraft Productions