Paediatric Pulmonology

Pneumonia in Children

Pneumonia is a frequent lung infection that causes people to have difficulty breathing. Viruses, fungi, or bacteria cause the air sacs in the lungs to fill with phlegm or mucous. Pneumonia can be fatal if not treated promptly and appropriately. In this blog, we will discuss what you should know if a child develops pneumonia.

Children are thought to be the most common sufferers of pneumonia. Pneumonia infections can be minor or severe. Serious pneumonia in children, particularly those under the age of five, is a serious cause for concern. According to WHO figures, pneumonia is the leading infectious cause of death in children worldwide.

Types of childhood Pneumonia

Childhood pneumonia is classified into several categories based on its cause, location on the body, and presentation. Pneumonia can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or other pathogens, and each affects children differently.

• Viral pneumonia: It is caused by viruses such as influenza or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It is rather frequent and can make breathing difficult.
• Bacterial pneumonia: It is caused by germs such as Streptococcus pneumonia. This variety can be more dangerous and requires antibiotics to treat.
• Aspiration pneumonia: It occurs when a youngster inhales food, liquids, or vomit into the lungs, resulting in an infection.
• Atypical pneumonia: It is caused by several pathogens, including Mycoplasma and Chlamydia. It can produce milder symptoms than bacterial pneumonia.
• Fungal pneumonia: It is caused by fungus such as Pneumocystis jirovecii and is most commonly found in children with weakened immune systems.

Causes

Pneumonia is primarily caused by bacteria or viruses. This type of virus spreads quickly and can be transmitted from one person to another. Fungi can sometimes cause pneumonia. The most common bacteria that cause pneumonia are:

• Adenovirus
• Group B Streptococcus
• Influenza Virus
• Mycoplasma Pneumonia
• Parainfluenza Virus
• Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
• Staphylococcus Aureus
• Streptococcus Pneumoniae
• Fungi like Pneumocystis, Cryptococcus, or Aspergillus.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of pneumonia in children include:

• Chills
• Pain while coughing
• Chest pain
• Cough that produces mucus
• Fast or hard breathing
• Fever
• Fussiness
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Tiredness (fatigue)
• Vomiting or diarrhoea

If you have any of the symptoms listed above, see your doctor before the infection worsens.

Diagnoses

Doctors frequently assess children with a chronic cough and cold for pneumonia. The most common technique to diagnose pneumonia in children is to examine their appearance, breathing patterns, and vital signs. A chest X-ray, as well as blood testing, may be requested for additional confirmation. Additional methods that are beneficial in diagnosing pneumonia in children are:

• Bronchoscopy
• Chest CT scan
• Pleural fluid culture
• Pulse oximetry
• Sputum culture.

Treatment

Bacterial pneumonia is frequently treated with a course of antibiotics. Most viral pneumonias are expected to heal on their own, as there is no treatment available. In such cases, treatment focuses on treating symptoms rather than combating the virus. Treatment for fungal pneumonia includes antifungal medications, and in severe cases, surgical debridement may be required. If the infection is severe, the kid may be hospitalized. The hospital therapy would involve the following.

Antibiotics may be administered intravenously or orally.

• Breathing treatments
• IV fluids
• Oxygen therapy
• Suction to remove the mucous

Other tested methods:

Other methods that can help relieve symptoms at home and in the hospital include:

• Taking cough and fever medication.
• Humidifiers
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Get plenty of rest.

Prevention

Preventing pneumonia:

• Get vaccinated: There are vaccines available to prevent some types of pneumonia and influenza. Discuss immunization alternatives with your doctor, especially if the guidelines have changed since your previous vaccination.
• Ensure children are vaccinated: Children under the age of two, as well as those aged two to five, should be vaccinated against pneumonia. Flu vaccinations are also advised for children above the age of six months and those who attend group daycare settings.
• Maintain good hygiene: Regular handwashing and the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers can help prevent respiratory infections that can lead to pneumonia.
• Maintain a strong immune system: Get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and eat a well-balanced diet to improve your general health and immunity.

When should I call my child's healthcare provider?

Pneumonia is a severe sickness. Observe your child at all times and contact your healthcare practitioner as soon as the following symptoms persist or new symptoms appear:

• Persistent fever
• Breathing problems include difficulty breathing, wheezing or grunting while sleeping, and so on.
• Neck stiffness
• Swollen joints
• Having trouble eating or drinking
• Overly lethargic

It is important to be alert and cautious about your health and that of your loved ones (particularly children). Pneumonia is a dangerous disease. However, if your child contracts it, don't worry. Take the appropriate measures and follow your doctor's advice. The majority of children will recover in 2-4 weeks with sufficient care.

Conclusion

Constipation in children is a frequent, but treatable illness. By identifying the causes and implementing appropriate dietary, behavioral, and medicinal therapies, parents may help their children maintain healthy bowel habits and overall well-being. Early detection and ongoing management are critical for avoiding difficulties and maintaining a happy, healthy childhood.