Asthma is an inflammatory disease that can make it difficult for your child to breathe. Its severity varies from child to child, and symptoms may include a chronic cough, wheezing and chest tightness. The pediatric experts at Sutter Gould Medical Foundation (which treats 6 and up at the Tracy location) are specially trained to diagnose, treat and help your child manage asthma. Having asthma doesn't mean children have to miss out on outdoor or high-energy ativities. In fact, most kids with asthma can fully participate in all childhood activities, including playing sports. By working with a pediatric asthma specialist, your child’s asthma can be easily managed. Because asthma symptoms are common symptoms for other disorders, your pediatric asthma expert may perform a wide range of thorough diagnostic tests to rule out other diseases. Many Sutter labs offer state-of-the-art diagnostic technologies, including equipment for infant and pediatric pulmonary function testing. Part of our diagnostic process includes identifying what triggers your child’s asthma attacks or flare-ups. A variety of triggers can cause flare-ups to come on suddenly and progress quickly. Identifying these triggers can help reduce symptoms.