Symptom 6: Difficulty Breathing or Persistent Cough
Every child catches a cold or a cough now and then. It’s part of growing up. However, a cough that lingers, one that doesn’t get better with the usual syrups and remedies, needs a closer look. Especially when it’s accompanied by breathing difficulties. In RMS, tumors in the chest or near the lungs can manifest as such symptoms.
Imagine a persistent itch that just doesn’t go away. That’s how these kids feel. They might wake up coughing in the middle of the night, or you’d find them short of breath after minimal activity. It isn’t the usual panting after a game of soccer. It’s more profound, often leaving them gasping.
Breathing, so vital and yet so underappreciated, when disrupted, affects not just the body but also the psyche. Kids might feel anxious, fearing the next bout of breathlessness. Monitoring the frequency of these episodes, understanding their triggers, and observing any patterns can provide vital clues.
A persistent cough or breathlessness isn’t just a minor hiccup. It could be the body’s SOS signal, hinting at RMS. Timely recognition and medical intervention can clear the path, allowing the child to breathe easy and live fully. (6)
