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Is It Really Asthma?

Is It Really Asthma?

Author: Children's Hospital Colorado September 15, 2026 Duration: 26:40
Charting Pediatrics
HealthHealth & FitnessFitnessMedicine

Wheezing, cough and increased work of breathing are common pediatric presentations that can quickly lead clinicians to consider asthma. But not every child with lower -airway symptoms has asthma. Viral illness, tracheomalacia, aspiration and other conditions can mimic asthma, making the underlying cause difficult to recognize based on symptoms alone. In this episode, we take a closer look at the clinical clues that can help pediatricians distinguish non-asthmatic causes of lower-airway symptoms from asthma. 

Monica Federico, MD, is a pulmonologist at Children's Hospital Colorado, the medical director of the hospital's asthma program and a professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. 

Some highlights from this episode include:

  • Common pediatric presentations that can mimic asthma 
  • Clinical clues that may point to a non-asthmatic cause of wheezing or cough 
  • Viral illness, tracheomalacia and aspiration as alternative diagnoses 
  • When persistent or atypical symptoms should prompt a broader evaluation 
  • How recognizing the underlying cause can change management 

For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org. 


For those dedicated to the health of children, Charting Pediatrics serves as a vital, ongoing conversation directly from the front lines of pediatric care. Produced by the multidisciplinary experts at Children's Hospital Colorado, this weekly podcast delves into the nuanced realities of modern medicine for young patients. Each episode moves beyond textbook summaries to explore the practical application of groundbreaking research, emerging innovations, and essential educational resources. The discussions are candid, often tackling the complex challenges that clinicians face daily, from evolving treatment protocols to systemic issues within the healthcare community. Now in its eighth season, the program has established itself as a trusted source for physicians, nurses, and allied health professionals seeking to deepen their knowledge and refine their practice. Listening to this podcast feels like gaining direct access to a roundtable of specialists, all focused on a single goal: empowering medical providers with the context and confidence needed to make the best decisions for their patients. The tone is collegial and insightful, transforming the latest evidence and clinical experience into actionable understanding. It’s where the science of pediatrics meets the art of its application, fostering a supportive dialogue for anyone committed to advancing child health.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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Charting Pediatrics
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