It seems like your child is always suffering from a cold or respiratory infection. But could it be something more than the sniffles? Nearly nine million children suffer from asthma, a chronic respiratory condition in which the airways narrow, making it difficult to breathe. Asthma symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Rapid spikes in these symptoms, due to allergens or environmental factors, are called asthma attacks. Because children have smaller airways than adults, they are more likely to experience these severe symptoms. Each year, asthma flare-ups account for an estimated 14 million lost school days. The capacity to have asthma is inherited and is usually diagnosed in childhood. But doctors are unsure exactly what causes asthma to develop in some children and not in others. Asthma is closely linked to allergies. Many scientists believe early allergic responses to allergens and infections may trigger asthma's development. Diagnosing asthma in children can be tricky because children usually can't fully describe their symptoms. Therefore, doctors rely on parents' observations and family history to make a diagnosis. Children who are diagnosed with asthma typically have had at least three episodes of prolonged wheezing that aren't related to a cold or other illness. Other indicators include hay fever and itchy, scaly skin. Once diagnosed, children will need help to control their asthma. Because younger children may not be able to tell you how they feel, watch closely for physical symptoms and behavioral changes that indicate an oncoming attack. Symptoms are unique from child to child. Some children develop a fever, while others will begin sneezing or have red, watery eyes. Many children appear tired, restless or cranky just before an attack. Ask your doctor about what symptoms are serious enough to head for the emergency room. Blue-tinted lips or fingernails, shallow breathing, or a persistent coughing fit are all indications that your child is having a severe attack. Preventing attacks in the first place is even more important. Exposure to certain factors, or triggers, often spurs symptoms. To reduce your child's exposure to asthma triggers, keep your home thoroughly clean. Eliminate any pest infestations, prohibit smoking and use an air filter to reduce airborne allergens. Take other steps based on triggers you observe. If dust is a problem, for example, regularly wash bedding and stuffed toys in hot water. Keep pets out of the child's bedroom. Should Fido or Fluffy prompt an attack, consider keeping them outside or finding them a new home. For nearly 80 percent of children, physical exertion is a trigger. Pay particular attention to your child's symptoms when he or she is playing and keep an inhaler on hand. Talk about your child's asthma with teachers, babysitters and family members. It's vital that these people recognize the signs of a pending attack, and know what to do. There is no cure for asthma, but with proper treatment, symptoms may disappear or markedly improve. If you think your child may be suffering from asthma, please make an appointment with your doctor.