Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions among children worldwide. For many children, this can make daily life difficult without an effective treatment plan. The first line of treatment is often rescue or maintenance inhalers. Lifestyle changes are also a major part of an asthma treatment plan.
However, some children experience symptoms even with proper inhaler use and lifestyle changes. When this occurs, additional treatment options should be explored. Below, you will find why some children don’t respond to inhalers — and how biologics can help.
Why Some Children Don’t Respond to Inhalers—and How Biologics Can Help
When inhalers are ineffective for some children, it’s worth considering alternative treatment options. Biologic therapies have been shown to help children manage asthma more effectively.
Pediatric asthma treatment often begins with inhaled medications. This opens airways and reduces inflammation. Common medications include:
- Short-acting bronchodilators for quick relief during sudden symptoms
- Inhaled corticosteroids to reduce swelling and prevent flare-ups
- Combination inhalers that include both corticosteroids and long-acting bronchodilators
While many children respond well with these treatments, others may still struggle with wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath.
Common Reasons Children Don’t Respond to Inhalers
Children who do not respond to inhalers generally experience persistent symptoms. This includes coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. When this occurs, it indicates that the asthma is severe or difficult to control. There are several reasons this may occur.
Severe or Allergic Asthma
Some children have severe asthma that is resistant to standard inhaled medications. Specific immune responses may cause inflammation. This is commonly elevated eosinophils or IgE antibodies. In these cases, standard inhalers are less effective.
Environmental Triggers
Children exposed to certain allergies may experience asthma symptoms. This can happen even if they use their inhalers properly. Common allergens include dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and smoke. Controlling the environment is an important part of treatment. However, some children experience persistent symptoms. This can occur despite proper cleaning and hygiene measures taken inside the home.
Coexisting Medical Conditions
Patients who suffer from asthma and other health conditions may not respond to inhalers. Common coexisting medical conditions that cause this include sinus infections, obesity, and gastroesophageal reflux disease. These conditions exacerbate asthma symptoms and reduce the effectiveness of inhalers.
How Biologic Treatments Help Children with Asthma
Children with severe or uncontrolled asthma can benefit from biologics. Biologics provide a targeted approach by modifying the child’s immune system response. They are an injectable medication that blocks specific proteins or immune pathways. Both of which are involved in asthma inflammation. Common biologic medications include IgE antibodies and interleukins. IgE antibodies are involved in allergic reactions, which can worsen asthma symptoms. Interleukins drive eosinophilic inflammation. This also results in worsening of symptoms in children with asthma.
Children who continue to experience asthma symptoms, despite proper inhaler use, can benefit from biologics. Common indicators that biologic treatment is necessary include frequent hospitalizations and elevated markers of allergic or eosinophilic inflammation. Biologic treatment has been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks. It improves lung function and breathing comfort. Treatment also reduces the need for oral steroids or frequent inhaler use. An asthma and sleep specialist for all ages will tailor biologic treatment to meet the unique needs of the patient.
Strategies for Managing Pediatric Asthma
Effectively managing pediatric asthma requires a multi-step approach. If your child has asthma or uncontrolled asthma symptoms, consult with a skilled asthma specialist.
Accurate Diagnosis
If your child has not been diagnosed with asthma, a precise diagnosis is essential. This can include lung function tests and assessment of symptoms. When you visit the asthma specialist, do your best to provide the frequency and severity of your child’s symptoms. Identifying possible triggers can also be helpful in developing an effective treatment plan. If you do not have this information, do not avoid going to the appointment. Finding the right treatment plan takes time and flexibility throughout the process. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce symptoms and improve the child’s long-term health.
Proper Inhaler Technique
Many children struggle with using an inhaler. Using it correctly is critical for the medication’s effectiveness. Caregivers should be trained to supervise and assist the process. This includes parents and trusted adults at school. The child should use the inhaler as needed. Using it properly maximizes the benefits of the medication. This includes shaking the inhaler, inhaling properly, and holding their breath for a few seconds. Keep a close eye on young children as they navigate using their inhaler.
Trigger Reduction
Environmental factors play a major role in asthma management. Reducing the child’s exposure to triggers is essential. Common triggers include dust mites, pollen, pet dander, mold, and smoke. Taking simple steps can significantly reduce symptoms. This includes cleaning their bedding regularly and using air purifiers or air filters. Additionally, avoiding outdoor activities during high-pollen days reduces flare-ups. Finding out what triggers your child’s asthma is highly beneficial. From there, you can reduce their exposure and prevent unwanted symptoms.
Medication Management
Adhering to the medication schedule is highly effective in controlling asthma. Daily maintenance inhalers reduce inflammation. Additionally, rescue inhalers are helpful during the onset of sudden symptoms. Young children may struggle to remember to take their medication regularly. Caregivers and trusted adults should be responsible for managing the child’s medication. Children with uncontrolled asthma may need advanced therapies. Working with a skilled asthma specialist can provide you with helpful insights on whether your child needs advanced treatment.
Regular Follow-Ups
Children are constantly growing and changing. This means that ongoing care is needed to maintain and control their asthma. Effective treatment involves regular follow-ups. An asthma specialist can monitor lung function, assess inhaler technique, review symptoms, and update medications as needed. Being proactive with asthma treatment is one of the best ways to help your child. This reduces asthma symptoms and helps ensure their long-term health.
Pediatric Asthma Treatment
If your child has uncontrolled asthma, contact Dr. Shukla and his team at the Asthma & Sleep Institute today to schedule an appointment!
