Asthma in children can present in several different ways including coughing, wheezing and/or shortness of breath. Unfortunately, asthma is the leading cause for pediatric ER visits as well as hospitalizations in the US. While it cannot be cured, asthma can be controlled with the right medication, education, management and care team.
Meet our Pediatric Asthma Expert
Laura Slamp, CPNP-PC is a board-certified pediatric nurse practitioner for the pulmonology team at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital. Laura enjoys treating children with a multitude of pulmonary diseases and enjoys building relationships with her patients and helping improve their quality of life.
"I am committed to providing in depth education and recommendations which assist patients and families gain control of their child’s asthma. Through trust and collaboration, my goal is to provide the skills and knowledge needed to improve a child’s quality of life."- Laura Slamp
What are the Risk Factors?
Asthma is most commonly found in children who have a family history of asthma, allergies and/or eczema (dry, itchy patches of skin). Other risk factors include premature birth requiring hospitalization and/or oxygen use, and certain viral illness in infancy.
What Medications are Used in Treatment?
The most common prescriptions include inhaled medications given either by nebulizer or metered dose inhaler (MDI).
When to See Your Pediatrician
If your child is unable to perform typical activities such as walking stairs, getting dressed or playing without feeling asthma symptoms then you should make an appointment with your pediatrician. If needed, we can refer you to a pediatric asthma specialist.
Schedule with Laura Slamp, CPNP-PC by calling 314-678-3085 or find a pediatrician near you by visiting cardinalglennon.com today.
