Understanding Pneumonia
Pneumonia, an infection in the lungs, was once a serious concern for children. Fortunately, with today’s medical advancements, most kids recover fully with timely treatment. Here’s what you need to know about the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of pneumonia in children.
Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Infections on the Rise
Recently, there’s been an uptick in Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections, especially among children. This type of bacteria often leads to mild respiratory illness and can cause "walking pneumonia," a less severe form of pneumonia that doesn’t usually require hospitalization.
Causes of Pneumonia
Most pneumonia cases begin after a viral infection in the upper respiratory tract. Sometimes, bacteria can also cause pneumonia or add to an existing viral infection, leading to a secondary infection. This illness tends to spread in close-contact environments, making it more common during fall, winter, and early spring when children spend more time indoors.
Recognizing Pneumonia Symptoms
Children with pneumonia often experience fever, which can lead to sweating, chills, flushed skin, and general discomfort. Additionally, they might lose their appetite and show reduced energy levels. Infants and toddlers may appear pale, limp, or unusually fussy. Breathing issues are also common and may include:
Persistent cough
Rapid or labored breathing
Skin pulling in between the ribs or around the breastbone
Nostril flaring
Chest pain, especially when coughing or breathing deeply
Wheezing
Pale, gray, or bluish lips or nails, indicating low oxygen levels
A physician can often diagnose pneumonia through a physical exam and assessing symptoms, though a chest X-ray may sometimes be needed to confirm it and check lung involvement.
Risk Factors for Pneumonia
Certain health conditions can make children more vulnerable to pneumonia, such as weakened immune systems or lung issues like cystic fibrosis, asthma, or cancer. Children with structural abnormalities in their airways or lungs may also have an increased risk.
Treating Pneumonia
For viral pneumonia, rest and fever management are usually the main treatments, as viral infections don’t respond to antibiotics. Cough suppressants are generally avoided to allow coughing to clear lung secretions. Symptoms of viral pneumonia often improve within days, though a lingering cough may persist.
Since it can be challenging to distinguish between bacterial and viral pneumonia, pediatricians may prescribe antibiotics if they suspect bacterial infection. It’s crucial to complete the entire prescribed course, even if your child feels better, to ensure the infection doesn’t return.
Follow up with your pediatrician if your child experiences any of the following:
Persistent fever despite antibiotics
Fever that temporarily subsides but returns
Difficulty breathing
Excessive fatigue or sleepiness
Symptoms indicating infection elsewhere, such as joint pain, neck stiffness, vomiting, or other unusual signs
Preventing Pneumonia with Vaccination
Vaccination can protect your child from Streptococcus pneumoniae, a common bacterial cause of pneumonia. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine for children, starting with doses at 2, 4, 6, and 12-15 months. This vaccine is often given alongside other standard childhood vaccines.
For children ages 2 to 5 who missed earlier doses, ask your pediatrician about a catch-up schedule. Additionally, older children with conditions like sickle cell anemia, heart or lung disease, or a weakened immune system may benefit from a different pneumococcal vaccine, which is recommended for those at higher risk.
Vaccination is a powerful way to protect children from pneumonia and other respiratory infections, supporting their health as they grow.
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