Short of breath

QMy son seems to be short of breath and quite wheezy lately. Should I get him checked for asthma? Jane, Leeds A It sounds like your son could well have asthma, and I would strongly advise you to take him to the doctor as soon as possible.

Asthma is very common in children and a cough is one of the most common symptoms.

Sometimes children start coughing after exercise. They commonly wheeze, which is a whistling sound when they breathe out.

They may say their chest feels tight, or young children may just say their tummy hurts.

You might also notice your son breathing fast and working hard at breathing.

Asthma can suddenly get dramatically worse, so as soon as you recognise asthma symptoms, you need to get help promptly.

The good news is that asthma can be easily treated.

You can help your son avoid anything that triggers his asthma, such as pollen, house dust mites, pet hair, and cigarette smoke.

He will be given inhalers to use regularly to widen his airways and you will both be taught how to recognise a severe attack.