Overview of Asthma and Age Group Most Affected
Asthma is a chronic condition in which the airways of the lungs become inflamed, narrowing and leading to difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness. It affects people of all ages, but the age group most affected by asthma is children under the age of 18. Asthma is the most common chronic childhood illness in the United States, affecting approximately 6.2 million children. Asthma causes more than 14 million missed school days each year.
Asthma in Infants and Young Children
Asthma is often first diagnosed in infancy or early childhood. Asthma symptoms can begin as early as 6 months of age and are more common in boys than girls. Symptoms in infants and young children may include coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing. If a child has recurring episodes of these symptoms, they may be diagnosed with asthma.
Asthma in School-Aged Children
School-aged children are also at risk for asthma. Asthma can be especially difficult for children in this age group because it can interfere with their activities, such as sports and outdoor activities. Symptoms in school-aged children may include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and fatigue.
Asthma in Adults
Asthma is also a problem for adults. It is estimated that more than 25 million adults in the United States have asthma. Symptoms in adults may include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and fatigue. In adults, asthma is more common in women than men.
Conclusion
Asthma affects people of all ages, but the age group most affected by asthma is children under the age of 18. Asthma is also a problem for adults, and is more common in women than men. It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of asthma in all age groups in order to get the appropriate treatment and reduce the risk of complications.