The Pediatrics Center: What You Need to Know About Pediatric Pneumonia
Pneumonia refers to the infection of the lungs which is very dangerous for children, but prompt medical intervention can help the morbidity and mortality rate associated with the disease. When it comes to the different types of virus that cause pneumonia, they include parainfluenza, influenza virus, adenovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus. Bacterial infections can also cause pneumonia. These viruses and bacteria are usually spread via coughing or direct contact with the person’s infected saliva or mucus. As contrary to the popular belief that pneumonia can be caused by improper clothing or air temperature, it is more common during fall, winter, and early spring when children spend more time indoors in close contact with other people.
When it comes to the signs and symptoms of pneumonia, they include fever, coughing, fast and labored breathing, sweating, chills, wheezing, widening of the nostrils, and bluish tint of the lips or nails. Chest x-ray is needed to determine the extent of lung infection. Avoid giving your child over-the-counter cough suppressants like dextromethorpan because coughing is needed to clear the excessive secretions produced by the lungs, and viral infection does not need any specific treatment other than fever control and rest. In order to prevent recurrence and complete eradication of infection, it is important to follow the exactly prescribed antibiotics with the right dosage, time, and frequency, and never discontinue the medication even if your child feels better. You need to have your child checked by a trusted and experienced pediatrician such as one in Summit Pediatrics NJ at The Pediatric Center as soon as you are suspecting pneumonia.
You have to check back with the pediatrician if your child shows any of these warning signs: fever lasting for more than a few days despite antibiotics intake, breathing difficulties, and evidence of other body part infection (swollen joints, neck stiffness, bone pain, and vomiting). Prevention is better than cure so have your child vaccinated against pneumococcal infections. The administration of pneumococcal conjugate or PCV13 is usually at four, six, and twelve to fifteen months. The vaccine pneumococcal polysaccharide or PPV23 is highly recommended for children at high risk of developing an invasive pneumococcal infection such as those with sickle cell anemia, heart disease, lung disease, kidney failure, organ transplant, or HIV from 24 to 29 months of age.
You’ll always find trusted and experienced pediatricians in New Jersey, and The Pediatric Center also offers providence childbirth classes for expecting moms. Find out their contact information here. Let us all work together to keep our children safe and healthy, so if you suspect pediatric pneumonia, better consult a pediatrician promptly before it is too late. Always remember that The Pediatric Center is always ready to help parents like you.
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