WHICH DR IS RIGHT?

My husband took his son to the doctor because he has had years (3-4 years)of chronic coughing and his mother seemed to think it was normal.  When she took him to the doctor about 2 months prior to my husband taking him, her doctor diagnosed him with Reactive Airway Disease/EIB.  Then my husband took him to another doctor, and he diagnosed him with Mild Persistent Asthma, and said he needs to be seen by a Pediatric Allergy and Asthma Specialist. Mom is refusing to do that since she feels her doctor is a good doctor. So, how could two different doctors have all these different diagnosis??

[National Jewish]

This is probably more of a problem than just the diagnosis. Actually both physicians gave the same diagnosis (different words, but the same problem!). Asthma is a form of Reactive Airways Disease. The term Mild Persistent is a degree of severity that indicates a need for persistent medication as a "controlling medication", but at a relatively low dose. The key issue is how well the asthma (reactive airways) is controlled and how well the youngster is doing. If the boy is doing well and the cough is controlled on the present regimen, probably no further action is needed. If the symptoms are not controlled, by whatever medications are being used, then further action and possibly referral is warranted.

[starion]

Dear Friend,
Both doctors are saying very similar things & it's very important for this child to have follow-up care by a specialist who can help him get his lung condition under control so he can lead a healthy, active life.  Please urge your family to be sure he gets the medical attention he needs.  Chronic coughing is NOT normal & needs prompt attention to avoid permanent damage.  There are many docs who are good, but specialists are specialists because they receive additional training to help folks the specific problems.  Hope this is helpful.  If you'd like more info about lung conditions, try www.NationalJewish.org, particularly their MedFacts & LungFacts.  Best of luck!
Aloha,
Starion--thriving in HI