Asthma can strike a child at any age, even in infancy. Up to 80% of children with asthma show symptoms before they are 5 years old.

Signs to look for include:

• wheezing
• shortness of breath
• noisy breathing
• tightness in the chest
• coughing that lasts more than a week.

Some children may only have a cough at night or after exercising or playing hard. If you suspect asthma, talk to your child's doctor.