Pediatric Pulmonology Services We Provide
Compassionate Pulmonology Care to Help your Child Breath Easier
At Alaska Pediatric Specialties, we know how important every breath is—especially for our little ones. Whether it’s managing asthma, addressing chronic coughs, or treating complex lung conditions, our Pediatric Pulmonology team is here to support your child’s health and well-being.
We provide expert care tailored just for kids, so they can breathe easier and live their best lives.
Pediatric Pulmonology Conditions That May Require Medical Intervention
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it difficult to breathe. Symptoms can include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. For many children, these symptoms worsen during exercise or at night, impacting their quality of life.
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of a detailed medical history, physical examination, and lung function tests. Identifying triggers, such as allergens or exercise, is a crucial step in managing the condition. Our specialists craft personalized asthma action plans to control symptoms and reduce flare-ups, ensuring your child can breathe freely.
Ongoing care often includes medications, such as inhalers and corticosteroids, along with lifestyle modifications.
Bronchitis and Pneumonia
Bronchitis and pneumonia are common respiratory infections that affect the lungs. Bronchitis typically involves inflammation of the bronchial tubes, while pneumonia is a more severe infection that inflames the air sacs in the lungs. Symptoms of these conditions often include coughing, fever, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.
Diagnosing these conditions involves a physical exam, listening to lung sounds, and imaging studies like chest X-rays. In some cases, blood tests or sputum analysis may be necessary to determine the specific cause.
Treatment depends on the severity of the infection. Mild cases may be managed with rest, hydration, and medication to alleviate symptoms, while severe cases may require antibiotics or hospitalization.
Chronic Cough
A chronic cough is a persistent cough that lasts longer than eight weeks and may interfere with daily activities. It can result from a variety of underlying causes, such as asthma, allergies, or respiratory infections. Left untreated, chronic coughing can lead to complications, including sleep disturbances and fatigue.
To diagnose the cause of a chronic cough, our team conducts a thorough medical history review and may recommend diagnostic tests such as chest X-rays or pulmonary function tests. Identifying the root cause is essential for effective treatment.
Once the underlying issue is determined, we develop a tailored treatment plan to address it.
Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects the respiratory and digestive systems, leading to thick, sticky mucus buildup in the lungs and other organs. This condition can cause frequent lung infections, coughing, and difficulty breathing, as well as nutritional deficiencies.
Diagnosing cystic fibrosis often involves genetic testing and a sweat chloride test to measure the level of salt in the sweat. Early diagnosis is critical for managing symptoms and preventing complications.
Premature Lung Issues
Premature lung issues arise when a baby is born before their lungs are fully developed. This can lead to respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) or long-term lung problems like bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Symptoms often include rapid breathing, grunting, and difficulty maintaining oxygen levels.
Diagnosing premature lung issues typically involves monitoring oxygen levels, imaging studies, and observing breathing patterns. Early intervention is key to managing these conditions effectively.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. In children, this may result from enlarged tonsils, obesity, or other anatomical factors. Symptoms include loud snoring, restless sleep, and daytime fatigue.
Diagnosis typically involves a sleep study (polysomnography) to monitor breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and sleep stages. Identifying the cause is essential for choosing the right treatment.
Treatment options vary based on the severity and cause of the condition. These may include lifestyle changes, surgical intervention to remove enlarged tonsils or adenoids, or the use of CPAP machines.
Disclaimer
All content found on this Site was created for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it based upon information you may have read on this Site.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately.