May is Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month—a perfect time to clear up common misconceptions about asthma. Many people assume that asthma is only a problem during physical activity or in response to obvious triggers like dust colds or smoke. However, one of the most overlooked signs of asthma is something many parents might not realize—nighttime coughing.

Is Your Child’s Nighttime Cough a Sign of Asthma?

Many parents assume that an occasional cough at night is due to a lingering cold or seasonal allergies. However, persistent coughing—especially at night—can be a key indicator of uncontrolled asthma.

Asthma-related coughing often worsens at night because of changes in airway function, exposure to allergens like dust mites, and the body’s natural circadian rhythms. Unlike a typical cold, which resolves within a couple of weeks, asthma-related coughing tends to persist and can interfere with sleep quality. If your child frequently wakes up coughing, it’s something to discuss with your doctor.

Knoweldge from a trusted source.

Common Asthma Myths—Busted!

• Myth: Asthma is only triggered by exercise.

  Truth: While exercise-induced asthma is real, triggers can also include allergens, heartburn, weather changes, and even stress. Asthma is a chronic condition that requires control to avoid ongoing lung damage.

• Myth: If my child isn’t wheezing, it’s not asthma.

  Truth: Wheezing is a common asthma symptom, but some individuals—especially children—experience chronic coughing instead. This can be known as “cough-variant asthma.”

• Myth: My child will outgrow asthma.

  Truth: While some children’s symptoms improve with age, asthma is considered a lifelong condition. Proper management, including identifying triggers and having a personalized care plan, is key to keeping symptoms under control.

• Myth: Inhalers are only needed during an attack.

  Truth: Many people with asthma use daily controller inhaler medications to prevent flare-ups, not just a rescue inhaler when symptoms get worse. Consistent management helps prevent future attacks.

Convenient, Hassle-Free Care for Busy Families

As a working mom, you already juggle a full plate—so managing your family’s health should be simple and stress-free. At our Direct Primary Care practice, we provide personalized, accessible care without the long waits or insurance headaches. Whether you need a comprehensive asthma action plan, prescription management, or just peace of mind, we’re here to help.

The Healthcare that your Family Deserves