Pneumonia Prevention and How to Care for Your Child?

Do you know that in India, pneumonia accounts for 14% of all deaths of children under five years old ? Sadly, it claimed the lives of 7,40,180 children in 2019. These are some staggering statistics. Therefore, parents need to understand how to prevent and care for their children if they are diagnosed with pneumonia.

In this blog post, we have discussed the causes of pneumonia in children, pneumonia cure, ways to avoid it, and tips for caring for a child with pneumonia. From understanding the signs and symptoms to seeking medical attention, we have covered everything you need to know. So, read on to learn more about preventive measures of pneumonia and care.

What is Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can cause inflammation and fill the air sacs with fluid or pus. Different kinds of bacteria, viruses, or fungi may bring it on. Pneumonia is a common infection that can range in severity from moderate to life-threatening.

It is particularly common in young children, elderly persons, and those with weak immune systems. Fever, chills, coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, and trouble breathing are some of the signs of pneumonia. It can cause major problems and even death if left untreated.

Generic Facts About Pneumonia

• Bacteria, fungi, or viruses can bring on pneumonia.
• Immunisation, good nutrition, and changing environmental factors can all help to prevent pneumonia.
• Pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics if caused by bacteria, but viral pneumonia cannot be treated with antibiotics. People with severe pneumonia may need hospitalisation and treatment with oxygen or intravenous fluids.
• Pneumonia is a foremost cause of death worldwide, particularly in young children and more senior adults. Vaccines are available to protect against some of the most standard types of bacterial pneumonia in children.
• It is important to practise good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly, to take preventive measures of pneumonia.

What are the Causes of Pneumonia in Children?

Bacteria or viruses typically bring on pneumonia. Direct contact with an infected person can also spread some viruses and bacteria. Fungi may sometimes also be one of the causes of pneumonia in children.

The following viruses and microorganisms are typical causes of pneumonia:

• Streptococcus pneumonia
• Mycoplasma pneumonia. It usually provokes a mild form of the illness called walking pneumonia.
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It is most usually noticed in children younger than five years old.
• Parainfluenza virus
• Group B Streptococcus
• Staphylococcus aureus
• Influenza virus
• Adenovirus

Which Children are at Risk for Pneumonia?

Children who are at risk for pneumonia include:

• Neonates and Infants: Babies under two years of age have a higher chance of pneumonia because their immune systems are not completely developed.
• Children with underlying health infections: Children with chronic ailments such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, and heart ailment are at higher risk for pneumonia.
• Children with weakened immune systems: Children with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or who consume specific medications that weaken the immune system are at higher risk for pneumonia.
• Children who are malnourished: If children who are undernourished or have vitamin A deficiency, their parents need to take preventive measures of pneumonia.
• Children living in crowded or unsanitary areas: Children living in inadequate sanitation or crowded situations are at higher risk for pneumonia.
• Children who have not been totally vaccinated: Children who have not received all recommended vaccinations, particularly the pneumococcal vaccine, are at higher risk for pneumonia.

It is essential to note that anyone can get pneumonia, but these children are at a higher risk and may need special attention and care.

What are the Symptoms of Pneumonia in Children?

Typically, pneumonia spreads from person to person. Children may be more susceptible to the disease in fall, winter, and early spring because they spend more time indoors in chilly or colder conditions.

The symptoms of pneumonia in children can vary. The signs that pneumonia is improving depends on the orientation of the illness (bacteria or a virus-induced). Children infected by bacteria normally show symptoms like:

• Fever
• Cough with mucus
• Painful cough
• Lack of appetite
• Unusual tiredness
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea

It can be challenging to determine whether a virus or bacteria is responsible for your child’s pneumonia. Breathing issues may develop more gradually if a virus is the cause of the issue. Your youngster may start wheezing and get a cough that gets worse. The following signs and symptoms of viral pneumonia frequently appear:

• Rapid or harsh breathing
• Headache
• Chills
• General fussiness

Some parents misinterpret the initial indications of pneumonia as a cold or other infection. However, if symptoms of pneumonia in children worsen, take them for a medical cure.

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The Transmission of Pneumonia in Children

Pneumonia is a transmittable infection that can outspread through various means. It is induced by viruses and bacteria that are typically found in the nose or throat and can infect the lungs if inhaled. These microorganisms can also be transmitted through air-borne droplets from a cough or sneeze.

Moreover, pneumonia can be spread through the blood, particularly during and shortly after birth. Therefore, further research is necessary to better understand the different pathogens accountable for pneumonia and how they are transmitted, as this information is necessary for effective pneumonia cure and prevention.

How Do You Diagnose the Symptoms of Pneumonia in Children?

Diagnosing pneumonia in children generally involves a variety of physical examinations, lab tests, and imaging. The following are some of the methods used to diagnose symptoms of pneumonia in children:

Blood tests. A blood count checks for indicators of infection. The amount of carbon dioxide and oxygen in the blood is measured during an arterial blood gas test.

Chest CT scan. This test takes pictures of the structures in the chest. It is very infrequently done to check the symptoms of pneumonia in babies.

Bronchoscopy. This process is used to see inside the lungs’ airways. It is done on very rare occasions.

Sputum culture. A sputum culture is a test performed on mucus coughed up from the lungs to check for infection. It will inform you if your children have pneumonia or not. It is not commonly done in children, as obtaining samples can be difficult.

Chest X-ray. A chest X-ray produces images of internal tissues, bones, and organs.

Pulse oximetry. A little device called an oximeter measures the blood’s oxygen content. The provider uses tape to secure a tiny sensor to a finger or toe to obtain this measurement. On the sensor, a tiny red light is visible when the machine is turned on. The sensor is easy and painless, and the red light does not get hot.

Pleural fluid culture. A pleural fluid culture is a test that concerns getting a fluid sample from the pleural space, the area between the lungs and the chest wall. This test is conducted to check for pneumonia in children, as a fluid collection in this area may indicate a disease or inflammation in the lungs.

Treatment for Pneumonia in Children

Now it’s time to get some knowledge about how to prevent pneumonia in children.

The effectiveness of pneumonia cure relies on its causes: virus or bacteria. Therefore, doctors generally depend on various physical exams and tests, including chest x-rays and blood tests, to analyse symptoms of pneumonia in babies.

They may also use a pulse oximeter to check your child’s oxygen levels and request a sputum culture to determine whether a lung infection is present.

Effective treatments are more limited if a virus brings on a child’s pneumonia. If a fever is present, doctors may advise rest and medicines to reduce it.

Additionally, you can also give your children cough medicines that contain codeine or dextromethorphan—coughing aids in clearing the lungs and removing extra mucus.

In situations where bacteria bring on pneumonia, antibiotics can be helpful. You should give your child the correct amount of antibiotics as often as your doctor instructs.

When your child starts to improve, resist the desire to stop using them. If you stop giving your child antibiotics, pneumonia might recur because there might still be bacteria in their lungs.

Tips that You Should Follow as Pneumonia Precautions

PSRI Hospital is the famous Delhi multispeciality hospital that has a specialised team of doctors that can also guide you with best tips to follow for pneumonia cure. To save your children from pneumonia, follow these tips.

• Keep your child away from ill kids and adults. It is recommended to keep your child away from kids who have upper or lower respiratory symptoms (such as runny nose, coughing, and sneezing).
• Make sure that your child is immunised (vaccinated). The Hib and Pneumococcal vaccines (PVC13) will help rescue your child against bacterial issues of pneumonia.
• Did you realise that pneumonia could develop from influenza (flu) virus? So ensure that your child has a flu shot.
• To stop viruses or bacteria from getting into the body when hands or body come in physical contact with your child’s nose or mouth, it’s crucial to wash hands with warm water and soap frequently. When you’re in a rush, use hand sanitiser.
• Don’t let your youngster share straws, cups, or eating utensils with others. The same remains true for handkerchiefs and face tissue.

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How to Care for Your Children if They are Battling With Pneumonia?

Book an appointment with a paediatrician immediately if you suspect they have pneumonia. After you take your kid to the doctor, you may typically manage pneumonia in children at home; however, in more severe cases, children must be hospitalised in the Delhi multispeciality hospital. Tips for pneumonia cure at home:

• To lower the temperature, use the correct treatment and dosage quantity in accordance with your child’s age.
• If the paediatrician has prescribed antibiotics, make sure to administer them at the proper time each day and for the full recommended duration. Don’t stop the antibiotic even if your child is feeling better after a few days. Discuss your concerns with the paediatrician regarding the drug or its negative effects.
• Ensure your child gets enough rest and drinks plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
• Before giving over-the-counter cold and flu medicines to your child, consult a paediatrician (Many of these are NOT suggested for kids under six years of age).
• Use of the thermometer to measure the body temperature of your child. Any temperature higher than 100.4 F is considered a fever. Don’t try to determine whether your child has a fever by feeling their body temperature.
• A humidifier adds moisture to the air and can improve your child’s breathing.
• Take your child immediately to the best hospital in Delhi NCR for an assessment if you notice they are having trouble breathing (fast chest rise, tummy moving quickly in and out, sucking in at or beneath the rib cage while breathing, or nasal flaring).
• Your child’s lips and nails should be a rosy pink colour, not bluish or grey, as this could indicate an oxygen deficiency. If this occurs, your youngster must be evaluated by a doctor immediately.
• Take your kid back to the doctor for an assessment if they are receiving home treatment for pneumonia but are not improving or seem to be getting worse. Seek for the medical attention from the top hospitals in Delhi NCR as soon as possible.

Remember that keeping your family healthy is essential for preventing pneumonia. Please make sure that your child should wash their hands frequently, maintain excellent hygiene, avoid getting sick, eat wholesome foods, and get their vaccinations.

Conclusion

So, if your child is already suffering from pneumonia and needs medical attention, PSRI Hospital, one of the top hospitals in Delhi NCR, merits your attention. The famous Delhi multispeciality hospital has an expert team of doctors for treating any kind of health problem at any age.