What does a diagnosis of severe intermittent asthma indicate?

A diagnosis of severe intermittent asthma indicates that the symptoms are not only frequent but also can be significant in nature, leading to periodic exacerbations that may greatly impact a child’s daily functioning. This form of asthma is characterized by the occurrence of symptoms on a regular basis, potentially several times a week, but with some symptom-free periods in between.

Children with severe intermittent asthma face a higher risk of serious asthma episodes, which may require quick relief medications or even hospitalization due to their intensity. The symptoms can manifest as wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing, and can be triggered by various factors such as allergens, respiratory infections, or exercise.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the nature of severe intermittent asthma. For instance, infrequent and mild symptoms would align more closely with mild intermittent asthma, while entirely manageable symptoms without medication would not define the severity indicated. Similarly, symptoms that only occur during physical activity would suggest exercise-induced bronchoconstriction rather than a consistent intermittent asthma pattern. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effective management and treatment strategies in pediatric asthma care.