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Managing Pediatric Severe Asthma: New Treatments and Expert Advice from Sheba Medical Center

November 10, 2024

Despite recent significant improvements in the care of pediatric severe asthma, some children continue to experience debilitating symptoms even after receiving treatment.

Dr. Moshe Ashkenazi, a pediatric pulmonologist and Deputy Director at the Edmond and Lily Safra Children’s Hospital at Sheba, emphasizes that while many of the new treatments available today – such as sprays and biological treatments – are highly effective, about 10% of children still struggle with severe asthma symptoms. In many cases, this is due to incorrect dosing or issues with the treatment plan.

Safra’s Pediatric Lung Disease Unit is committed to providing the best care for children with complex lung conditions. The unit offers comprehensive services, including diagnosing and treating asthma, providing ongoing monitoring, and offering education on proper inhaler use.

The Latest Developments in Asthma Treatments

Previous treatment methods, such as oral steroids, have mostly been replaced by the new, more advanced therapies mentioned earlier: sprays and biological treatments. Today, two main sprays are used for long-term maintenance and acute treatment for immediate relief. Additionally, six different types of biological therapies are now available, offering targeted treatment options that can significantly improve the quality of life for children with severe asthma.

For parents, Dr. Ashkenazi advises closely monitoring their children for signs of severe asthma. These signs include increased tiredness, a reluctance to engage in physical activities, persistent coughing, especially after running or climbing stairs, or during sleep. If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, it is important to seek medical advice promptly.

 

Published 11.10.2024, Sheba Global News

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