Pediatric Pulmonology and Asthma

Helping your child breathe easier 

The pediatric pulmonology team at Banner Children’s is here to support you and your family with expert, compassionate care. Whether your child is struggling with asthma, a chronic cough or a complex lung condition, our specialists will help you understand what’s happening and create a treatment plan that fits your child’s needs. 

What is pediatric pulmonology? 

Pediatric pulmonology focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases that affect a child’s lungs and breathing. Because children’s lungs and airways are still developing, they need specialized care that’s different from adults. 

Common conditions treated by pediatric pulmonologists include: 

• Asthma 
• Chronic cough or wheezing 
• Pneumonia and bronchitis 
• Cystic fibrosis 
• Sleep-related breathing disorders 
• Lung problems caused by premature birth 

At Banner Children’s, your child’s care team may include pediatric pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, nurses and educators. Together, they’ll focus on improving your child’s breathing, comfort and overall health. 

When to see a pediatric pulmonologist 

Your child’s pediatrician can treat many mild or short-term breathing issues. However, your doctor may refer you to a pediatric pulmonologist if your child has: 

• Frequent coughing, wheezing or shortness of breath 
• Ongoing chest pain or tightness 
• Recurrent pneumonia or bronchitis 
• Difficulty breathing during sleep or exercise 
• A diagnosis of cystic fibrosis or chronic lung disease 
• Breathing problems that do not improve with standard treatments 

If your child is struggling to breathe, developing frequent respiratory infections or showing signs of lung injury, talk to your doctor about a referral to a pediatric pulmonologist as soon as possible. 

Pulmonary screening and diagnostic tests 

To find out what’s causing your child’s breathing problems, your Banner Children’s care team may recommend tests such as: 

• Blood and urine tests to check overall health and organ function 
• Imaging tests such as chest X-rays or CT scans to view the lungs and airways 
• Lung function tests (spirometry) to measure how well your child’s lungs move air 
• Infant pulmonary function testing for babies and toddlers who cannot perform standard tests 
• Flexible bronchoscopy to look inside the airways and collect tissue or fluid samples if needed 

These tests help your provider make an accurate diagnosis and choose the best treatment plan for your child. 

Understanding asthma and common triggers 

Asthma is one of the most common conditions treated by pediatric pulmonologists. During an asthma flare-up, your child may feel chest tightness, have faster breathing, cough or wheeze. 

Asthma symptoms can be triggered by environmental factors, including: 

• Car and truck exhaust 
• Dust and mold 
• Exercise 
• Pets 
• Smoke 

Asthma is a chronic condition, meaning symptoms can come and go. The good news is that with the right plan, asthma can be well managed. Your child’s pulmonology team will help identify triggers, adjust medications and create an asthma action plan so you can respond quickly to symptoms. 

Pediatric asthma and lung care at Banner Children’s 

At Banner Children’s, we evaluate and treat a wide range of respiratory conditions. Our pediatric pulmonology services include: 

• Comprehensive asthma care and education 
• Treatment for chronic lung disease caused by premature birth 
• Care for children with respiratory failure or dependence on ventilators 
• Management of chronic or recurrent respiratory infections such as bronchitis, bronchiolitis and pneumonia 
• Pulmonary function and infant lung testing 
• Flexible bronchoscopy for diagnosis and treatment guidance 

Our goal is to help every child breathe easier, feel stronger and live an active life. With advanced technology and a team that understands how children grow and heal, we’ll be with you through every step of your child’s care journey. 

Why choose Banner Children’s for pulmonary and asthma care 

At Banner Children’s, you’ll find: 

• A team that listens and puts your child’s comfort first 
• Access to leading specialists in pediatric respiratory care 
• Family-centered education to help you manage your child’s condition at home 
• Coordination between your child’s pediatrician, pulmonologist and other specialists 

We’re here to provide personalized care that helps your child thrive. 

Next steps: 

Talk to your pediatrician about a referral to a pediatric pulmonologist at Banner Children’s or find a specialist near you through our online provider directory.