Signs of Infant Asthma
Dr Vivek Akkera’s neonatal expertise helps Bella Vista families understand when signs of infant asthma warrant further assessment, supporting timely diagnosis and appropriate care for babies with ongoing breathing concerns.
If you have questions, here is a good place to start.
Understanding the Signs of Infant Asthma
Asthma is a long-term condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it harder to breathe. While it can occur in infants, diagnosing asthma in newborns and babies can be challenging because many symptoms overlap with common childhood illnesses.
Signs of infant asthma may include persistent coughing, wheezing, or recurring chest infections, particularly during feeding, crying, or after exposure to triggers. A paediatrician can assess these symptoms, rule out other possible causes, and determine whether further investigations or ongoing monitoring are needed to reach an accurate diagnosis.
When to Get Signs of Infant Asthma Checked
Occasional coughing is common in babies, but persistent or recurring breathing symptoms should not be ignored. If symptoms are frequent, worsening, or affecting your baby’s overall wellbeing, it is a good idea to arrange an assessment with a paediatrician.
Consider seeing a paediatrician if your baby:
- Has frequent wheezing or whistling sounds when breathing
- Develops a persistent cough, especially at night or after activity
- Experiences repeated episodes of chest congestion or chest infections
- Breathes rapidly or appears short of breath
- Has difficulty feeding due to coughing or breathing problems
- Becomes easily tired during feeding or play
- Has symptoms that regularly return after viral illnesses
- Has a family history of asthma, eczema, or allergies alongside breathing symptoms
- Continues to have unexplained breathing concerns despite treatment for common illnesses
IMPORTANT: Seek urgent medical attention if your baby is struggling to breathe, has blue or grey lips, ribs pulling in with each breath, pauses in breathing, or is difficult to wake.
Meet Our Paediatrician for Newborn Health Concerns
Dr Vivek Akkera is a Consultant General Paediatrician with extensive experience caring for children, particularly newborns and infants. His experience in neonatal and paediatric medicine allows him to assess ongoing breathing concerns, rule out other conditions that may mimic asthma, and guide families on appropriate next steps for their baby’s care.
- Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (FRACP)
- More than 16 years of experience in paediatric medicine across India, the United Kingdom, and Australia
- Dedicated neonatal training completed in Leicester, United Kingdom
- Nearly 10 years within the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network and The Children’s Hospital at Westmead
- Specialist expertise in newborn, infant, and child health and development
Why Bella Vista Families Go to Medivik For Infant Respiratory Concerns
When your baby’s breathing worries you, choosing the right paediatrician matters more than you might think. Here’s what sets Medivik apart:
Longer Appointments, Thorough Assessments
We offer 40-minute initial consultations, giving families enough time to discuss their baby’s symptoms, medical history, and any ongoing concerns without feeling rushed. Appointments are available both in person and via telehealth for added convenience.
Convenient Bella Vista Location
Our Bella Vista clinic is centrally located in Sydney’s Hills District, making specialist paediatric care more accessible for families across the surrounding communities. On-site parking and proximity to major roads and public transport help make appointments easier to attend.
Shorter Wait Times with Same-Week Availability
We aim to keep appointment wait times reasonable so families can access specialist advice sooner. Same-week appointments may be available, allowing parents to have persistent respiratory concerns assessed without unnecessary delays.
Is your child struggling with signs of infant asthma?
Your Child's Journey
Your First Visit
Your journey begins here. Book your child’s first appointment through our online portal. A referral isn’t required, but it is if you’d like to claim a Medicare rebate.
Preparing for Your Visit
Please bring your referral letter, Medicare card, and Blue Book. School reports, past records, or short videos of symptoms are also helpful for giving us a clear picture.
Virtual Consultations
Some visits are easier from home. Telehealth lets you connect with your paediatrician clearly and reliably, without the stress of travel or waiting.
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The Day of Your Visit
Your first consultation usually lasts 40 minutes. You’ll find us at the Bond Building in Bella Vista, Dangar Medical Practice in Singleton, or the Riverside Park Office Tower in West Gosford.
How Can We Help?
Parent Form
- Monday to Friday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
- 509/8 Elizabeth Macarthur Drive, Bella Vista
- 33 Dangar Rd, Singleton
- GF/69 Central Coast Hwy, West Gosford
- 02 8530 8312
- 02 7249 3080
- info@medivik.com.au
- medivik.com.au
After Hours
Medivik is a specialist clinic and does not provide emergency care. For urgent medical concerns, please contact your GP, visit your nearest hospital emergency department, or call 000.
Doctor Referral Form
Contact Information
- Monday to Friday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
- 509/8 Elizabeth Macarthur Drive, Bella Vista
- 33 Dangar Rd, Singleton
- GF/69 Central Coast Hwy, West Gosford
- 02 8530 8312
- 02 7249 3080
- info@medivik.com.au
- medivik.com.au
After Hours
Medivik is a specialist clinic and does not provide emergency care. For urgent medical concerns, please contact your GP, visit your nearest hospital emergency department, or call 000.
Frequently Asked Questions About Infant Asthma
What are the most common signs of infant asthma parents should watch for?
Signs of infant asthma most commonly include wheezing (a whistling sound during breathing), fast or shallow breathing, persistent coughing especially at night, and working harder to breathe with nostrils flaring or chest retractions. You might also notice your baby tiring easily during feeds, becoming fussy more often, or showing reduced interest in activities they usually enjoy. Because infants can’t communicate how they’re feeling, observing these physical signs becomes crucial.
At what age do signs of infant asthma typically start appearing?
Signs of infant asthma can appear at any time during infancy, though research shows that as many as 80% of children who develop asthma show symptoms before age 5, with many displaying signs in their first year of life. Respiratory viruses are among the most common triggers in infants under 6 months old, often making it difficult to distinguish between a simple cold and emerging asthma. Some babies show symptoms from birth, particularly those born prematurely or with family history of asthma, while others develop signs gradually over several months.
Can infant asthma be confused with other conditions?
Yes, several conditions share similar symptoms with infant asthma, which is why specialist assessment is essential. Bronchiolitis, croup, acid reflux, respiratory infections, and even inhaled foreign objects can all cause wheezing, coughing, and breathing difficulties. Some infants with signs of reflux may develop respiratory symptoms that mimic asthma, while others might have temporary breathing issues related to colds that resolve on their own. Dr Akkera’s neonatal and paediatric training helps him distinguish between these conditions, ensuring your infant receives the correct diagnosis.
Do I need a referral to see a paediatrician about my infant's breathing concerns?
You don’t need a referral to book an appointment at Medivik. However, having a GP referral allows you to claim a Medicare rebate, which significantly reduces your out-of-pocket costs for the consultation. For more details about fees, please see our pricing page.
What's involved in treating infant asthma?
Treatment for infant asthma typically involves medication delivered through a nebuliser (a device that creates a fine mist) with a face mask, or sometimes an inhaler with a spacer device. Quick-relief medications open airways during symptoms, while controller medications reduce inflammation and prevent episodes. Dr Akkera will develop a personalised asthma action plan for your infant, explaining exactly when to use each medication and what warning signs to watch for. Treatment also involves identifying and managing triggers like allergens, respiratory infections, or environmental irritants.