ALEXANDRIA, La., May 8, 2008 – May is Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month, and Dean Edell, M.D., Pediatric Pulmonology, of Rapides Specialty Clinic is taking the opportunity to educate parents on the signs and symptoms of asthma in children.

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disorder in which the airway constricts and becomes inflamed and filled with mucus. According to information released in 2006 by the Department of Health and Hospitals, Louisiana falls within the top 25 percent of states for asthma-related deaths.

The most common signs and symptoms of childhood asthma are wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath, Edell said.

“Because asthma is fairly common in the United States – almost 10 percent of children have it – many people mistakenly think of it as a minor health concern,” said Edell. “However, the fact is that 4,000 people die from asthma every year, so it is important that parents understand how crucial diagnosis and treatment are in order to protect children from aggravated cases that could lead to hospitalization or death.”

Treatment programs generally consist of a combination of pharmaceutical therapy and environmental regulation. There is no proven method of preventing asthma, however, there are irritants that can be avoided to help reduce the symptoms.

“There are a number of factors that contribute to asthma,” said Edell. “Genetic makeup is the strongest intrinsic factor, however external factors, such as contact with perfume or cigarette smoke, can trigger asthma symptoms as well.”

Other triggers may include allergens, cold or moist air, exercise and emotional stress. Smoking while pregnant increases the risk that the child will be an asthmatic. The disease is also more prevalent in premature babies.

Allergies are strongly linked to asthma, and both are among America’s most common and expensive health problems. Nearly 50 million Americans suffer from allergies and 17 million – more than 6 million of them children – have asthma.

Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month is endorsed by Allergy and Asthma Network Mothers of Asthmatics (AANMA), who also sponsor Asthma Awareness Day on Capitol Hill the first Wednesday in May each year.