What causes weakness in legs and asthma in a child?
Patient: When my daughter dances she has weakness in her legs when she is done dancing (tap) hard. She has exercise induced asthma and has braething problems as well. She uses an inhaler before she starts. What coul be the cause of this?  It is very scary when it happens.She is 17 years old and weights about 140 lbs, Doctor: Hello.Thank you for asking at HCM.I went through your daughter's history.I would like to know a few more details like -Does she have nose symptoms (nasal congestion, sneezing, etc) ? Does she have breathing problems without exercise? Does she have night-time cough? Does she have any other physical problems?However, from your given history, I would like to reply your queries as follows:1. If she has breathing problems apart from exercise, I would suggest her taking montelukast alone for at least 2-3 months.2. If she has frequent nose symptoms also, I would suggest to add regular cetirizine or levocetirizine for at least 2-3 months.3. I would personally suggest her to get allergy testing done. This will help her know what she is allergic to and how to avoid it.4. It is perfect that she is using inhaler before she starts. However, if this is not enough, I would make two suggestions: a. To take a montelukast an hour before dancing. b. To perform a brief exercise (like running) for 5-10 minutes, approximately 45-60 minutes before her dancing time. This may help her performing dancing session more smoothly.5. For leg weakness, I would suggest you to check her hemoglobin levels, if low, they should be corrected with oral iron, folic acid and vitamin B12. 6. Were I treating her, I would also prescribe her vitamin and mineral supplements including vitamin D and calcium in form of multivitamins for 3 months.7. Personally I would also suggest her regular stretching and relaxing exercises, especially involving lower limbs.Hope above suggestions will be helpful to her.Wish her the best of the health.Should you have any further query, please feel free to ask at HCM.Thank you & Regards.