Pneumonia is a respiratory infection of the lungs that affects people of all ages. Bacteria or viruses are the leading cause of pneumonia. These microorganisms fill the air sacs with mucous or phlegm, making breathing difficult and causing the infected person to cough. When an infected person coughs, it is spread through the fluid droplets. Children under the age of 2 years are at high risk, but anyone can catch it from an infected person. When pneumonia is mild, treatment is easy, but if it is severe, it can be life-threatening, especially in small children. However, with proper treatment, almost everyone recovers. Continue reading to learn about the causes, symptoms and treatment for pneumonia.
It is essential to know the symptoms in children so they can be detected and treated as soon as possible. While the symptoms vary depending on the infection severity and age, some common signs include.
Cough: Children with this infection have a persistent cough with phlegm or mucus. This is accompanied by difficulty in breathing or wheezing.
Fever: This is another common symptom that happens suddenly, along with sweating or chills.
Fast breathing: This is one of the symptoms to look for in pneumonia in children under 5, who have trouble catching breath or rapid breathing even when at rest.
Chest pain: This is seen when taking deep breaths or when coughing. This may be dull or sharp and worsens with movement.
Fatigue: Children are lethargic, tired, sleepy or irritable and have less energy for everyday activities.
Loss of appetite: Children have trouble drinking or eating, which can lead to dehydration if not treated properly.
Blue nails or lips: In severe cases, children may have a bluish tinge on their skin, lips or nails due to lack of oxygen.
Causes of Pneumonia in Children
Bacterial: Bacterial infections are a significant cause of this illness in children. The most common bacteria responsible include Streptococcus pneumonia, Mycoplasma pneumonia, and Haemophilus influenza type B.
Viral pneumonia: This is another leading cause of pneumonia in younger children. Parainfluenza virus, influenza virus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are the viruses that commonly cause this illness in children.
Fungi: Fungal pneumonia is rare in children and is caused by weak immunity or underlying health conditions.
Aspiration: Accidental inhalation of liquids, food, or foreign substances into the lungs can lead to this illness in children, especially in toddlers with difficulty swallowing.
Environmental factors: Exposure to air pollutants like smoke, smog, etc., can increase the risk. Children who live in poorly ventilated and overcrowded places are susceptible to infections and respiratory illness.
Underlying health issues: Children with congenital heart defects, chronic lung diseases, or immunodeficiency disorders are at high risk of pneumonia as these conditions affect the child's immunity to fight infections.
Prematurity: Premature infants are more susceptible due to their underdeveloped lungs and immature immune systems.
Malnutrition: Children who are malnourished are vulnerable to this infection due to weak immunity.
Inhalation of irritants: Inhaling gases, smoke, chemicals, etc., can lead to lung inflammation and increase pneumonia in children
Treatment of Pneumonia in Children
Diagnosing pneumonia is based on the symptoms presented and the time of year. The doctor listens to the lungs and watches the breathing. A chest X-ray and blood tests are recommended to determine the treatment. Treatment for signs of pneumonia in children is typically a combination of medication, fluids and rest. However, the specific approach depends on infection severity, the child's age, and overall health. Here are some common treatment options:
Antibiotics: If the cause of pneumonia is bacteria, antibiotics are prescribed to fight infections. It is important to complete the antibiotics course until it is finished, even if the child feels better.
Nebulisers and inhalers: Children with pneumonia may get relief from using inhalers to make breathing easy by opening the airways. These deliver medicines to the lungs directly and hence beneficial to kids.
IV fluids: If the child has difficulty drinking or eating and is dehydrated, they may need intravenous fluids to prevent complications and rehydrate.
Oxygen therapy: In severe cases, children may need oxygen supplementation to help improve breathing. This is done in a hospital setting till the child gets better.
Hospitalisation: In some cases, if the child has underlying health issues or is very young, hospitalization may be needed for treatment and monitoring.
Preventing Pneumonia
It may not always be possible to prevent this infection, but specific preventive measures can be taken to reduce the risk of infection.
Vaccination: Vaccines protect children from certain viruses and bacteria that cause pneumonia, including influenza and streptococcus pneumonia. Ensure that your child is up-to-date on vaccinations. Vaccinations for children with bacterial pneumonia start at 2 months.
Hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and water before touching your face or eating. This prevents germs from entering the body and causing infections like pneumonia.
Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding is recommended for babies for at least the first six months of birth, as it contains antibodies that protect them from infections. Doctors recommend it as a treatment option when there are signs of pneumonia in infants.
Proper nutrition: Malnourishment is one cause of this infection. So, ensure that the child eats a balanced diet of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains to have a healthy immune system. Proper nutrition can also reduce the risk of pneumonia.
Avoid sick people: Children should not be allowed close contact with sick people, especially if they sneeze or cough.
Avoid air pollution: Exposure to cigarette smoke and other air pollutants can increase the risk of pneumonia and other respiratory infections. Avoid places where smoking is allowed
Conclusion
Pneumonia is a common respiratory infection affecting kids of all ages. There are many types of pneumonia in children. Depending on the cause, understanding and identifying the symptoms can help get prompt medical treatment. Proper medical treatment is essential to prevent complications and have a fast recovery. Follow the preventive measures like getting your child vaccinated, following good hand hygiene, and having a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of pneumonia. If you doubt that your child has signs of pneumonia, contact your paediatrician without delay.
FAQs:
What is the leading cause of pneumonia in children?
The most common cause of pneumonia in children is streptococcus pneumoniae, which is a bacterial pneumonia.
What are the symptoms of pneumonia in children and treatment?
Common symptoms are fever, cough, fatigue and chest pain. Treatment depends on the cause of pneumonia, but it is typically treated with antibiotics. Rest and fluid intake are other treatment options.
Do kids recover from pneumonia?
Yes. Kids can recover from pneumonia if proper treatment and care is provided. A child may need about 6-8 weeks or more to recover from severe pneumonia.
Is pneumonia serious for kids?
Yes. It is a serious illness for children, but they can recover with prompt treatment and good care.
Want to consult the best gynecologists in India? Please find the links below.
