Pneumonia or lung inflammation in children is a dangerous disease that often accompanies the winter season. It is a serious condition caused by a lung infection that leads to inflammation. If a child has a weakened immune system, they may be at higher risk of severe complications. Additionally, parents should be cautious of ‘Influenza Type A’ in children as well. Today, the doctor will guide us to better understand pneumonia and lung inflammation in children.
What Causes Pneumonia or Lung Inflammation?
- Infectious Pneumonia or Lung Inflammation:
- This is primarily caused by viruses and bacteria, with fungal and parasitic infections being less common. In the past, the specific pathogens responsible was difficult to identify, so the condition was generally referred to as pneumonia. However, advanced medical technology now make it much easier for doctors to identify the exact pathogens causing pneumonia, leading to better diagnosis and treatment.
- Common viruses found in children include RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), Influenza A/B, hMPV (Human Metapneumovirus), Parainfluenza, and Rhinovirus, among others.
- Common bacteria found in children include Pneumococcus (Streptococcus pneumoniae), Group A Streptococcus, Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type B), and Mycoplasma pneumoniae, which has been increasingly detected in recent times.
- Non-Infectious Pneumonia or Lung Inflammation is commonly caused by factors such as food aspiration or irritation from inhaling smoke or chemicals.
Which Groups of Children Are at Risk for Pneumonia or Lung Inflammation?
- Children under 2 years old
- Premature babies or those with low birth weight
- Malnourished children who do not receive adequate nutrition
- Children with chronic conditions, such as:
- Heart disease
- Lung disease
- Immune deficiencies
- Neurological disorders
- Diabetes
- Liver or kidney diseases
- Children living in overcrowded communities
- Children exposed to passive smoking from people around them
How Is Pneumonia or Lung Inflammation Transmitted?
This disease can spread through **respiratory droplets** when a person inhales air containing small droplets with the pathogen, directly reaching the lungs. It is especially common in crowded places, such as schools, daycare centers, playgrounds and air-conditioned rooms where many children gather. Sometimes, children may carry the pathogen in their bodies without showing symptoms or with only mild symptoms. These asymptomatic carriers can still spread the infection, making it particularly important to be cautious, especially in preschool daycare settings.
How to Check for Symptoms of Pneumonia or Lung Inflammation in Children?
-Fever, which may be high with chills or just a mild fever
- Frequent coughing, restlessness, and difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- The child appears fatigued and weak
- Sometimes, the child may experience vomiting or abdominal pain as the first symptoms.
How to Protect Your Child from Pneumonia or Lung Inflammation
- Avoid taking your child to crowded places
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick, coughing, sneezing, or have a runny nose
- Have your child wear a face mask when going to crowded places
- Keep the home environment clean at all times
- Maintain good health, eat nutritious food, and include vegetables and fruits in their diet
- Avoid exposing your child to places with cigarette smoke, fire smoke, or car exhaust fumes
- Encourage regular handwashing, especially before meals
- Have your child stay home from school when they are sick or unwell
- Ensure vaccinations are up to date to prevent infections that can lead to pneumonia: flu vaccine (to prevent influenza), Pertussis vaccine (to prevent whooping cough), Pneumococcal vaccine (to prevent pneumonia from pneumococcus), Hib vaccine (to prevent Haemophilus influenzae type B), as vaccines help prevent infections and reduce the severity of illness, especially in children at higher risk for severe infections.
Initial Care for Your Child
Pneumonia in children is a common condition, and in severe cases, it can lead to respiratory failure. Therefore, if you suspect that your child is showing symptoms of pneumonia or a bacterial lung infection, it is important to take them to see a doctor as soon as possible to receive timely treatment.
Doctor's Approaches to Treating Pneumonia or Lung Inflammation in Children:
- Symptomatic Treatment, especially for viral pneumonia, which does not have specific antiviral medications. This may include fever-reducing medications, bronchodilators, mucolytics if the child has thick mucus, nebulizer treatments if there is wheezing or bronchospasm, oxygen therapy if needed, and chest physiotherapy to help clear mucus from the lungs and airways. If breathing becomes difficult or worsens, the doctor may consider using a ventilator or intubating the child.
- Targeted Treatment based on the specific pathogen: antiviral medications for influenza, as well as antibiotics depending on the bacteria causing pneumonia or lung inflammation
A heartfelt thank for information provided by Ms. Piyarat ‘Ann’ Lertbannaphong, M.D., a specialized pediatrician.
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Crated At 20/11/2024