Asthma Specialist

Pediatrics of Long Island

Pediatrics located in Brentwood, NY & Patchogue, NY

Asthma is a chronic lung condition that causes breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing and affects 400,000 children in the state of New York. Ongoing medical treatment for children diagnosed with asthma is essential to improve breathing and minimize acute asthma attacks. At Pediatrics of Long Island, experienced pediatric physicians Ramon Ferrand, MD, and Alaaeldin Moawad, MD, provide asthma care for children, including in-office treatment for an acute asthma attack. To schedule an appointment, call the office in Brentwood or Patchogue, New York, or book online today.

Asthma Q&A

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic condition that interferes with breathing by causing the airways in the lungs to swell and overproduce mucus. In addition to making it more difficult to breathe, asthma may also trigger coughing and wheezing. 

Though symptoms vary, asthma is chronic and requires ongoing medical care to manage lung health and prevent health complications. Pediatrics of Long Island specializes in treating children with asthma and can develop a plan to help you and your child manage their condition.


What are asthma symptoms?

Asthma symptoms vary in children, ranging from mild to severe, and may worsen over time. Common asthma symptoms include:


  • Shortness of breath
  • Wheezing or whistling sound during an exhale
  • Coughing
  • Chest tightness
  • Difficulty sleeping at night due to chronic coughing


You may also notice that your child only experiences asthma symptoms under certain conditions, referred to as asthma triggers. Common asthma triggers include exercise, allergies, and lung irritants such as dust or cigarette smoke. A flu or cold infection may also trigger your child’s asthma symptoms. 


How is asthma diagnosed?

Dr. Ferrand and Dr. Moawad at Pediatrics of Long Island perform comprehensive evaluations to diagnose asthma in your child. During the exam, your pediatrician asks detailed questions about your child’s symptoms, medical and family history, and then performs a physical. 

Your pediatrician may also run various lung function tests to assess how well air moves in and out of your child’s lungs. Allergy testing may also be recommended, which is performed at the office. 


How is asthma treated?

Treatment for your child’s asthma centers around controlling the disease and preventing an asthma attack before it starts.

Dr. Ferrand and Dr. Moawad work closely with you to develop an asthma treatment plan that includes identifying and avoiding your child’s asthma triggers, as well as the ongoing use of long-term medications to prevent an asthma attack and rescue medication to treat an unexpected asthma attack.

Pediatrics of Long Island also provides treatment for acute asthma in the office, without the need for a referral. 

For comprehensive management of your child’s asthma, call Pediatrics of Long Island or use the online tool to schedule an appointment today.