Symptoms of Pneumonia in Children

December 19, 2020

Pneumonia can be life-threatening in children, as their immune systems have not developed enough to fight off the infection. As a parent, it is important to recognize the signs your child may need emergency medical attention. AFC Urgent are Burlington can help you learn those signs and what the best treatment options are. If you think your child may have pneumonia, visit AFC Urgent Care Burlington today for a diagnosis. We offer treatment for a variety of general illnesses.

Signs of pneumonia

There is a variety of bacteria or viruses that can cause pneumonia. One effective way to prevent your child from getting pneumonia is by getting a flu shot if they are older than six months. Bacterial pneumonia causes symptoms to show up suddenly and can be treated with an antibiotic. They can range from mild to severe, depending on the cause. Symptoms of pneumonia in children include:

  • Cough, which can be painful that produces mucus
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Fatigue
  • Fever

Viral pneumonia symptoms show up more gradually and typically begin with the cough and shortness of breath.

Risk-factors

Complications are highest for children than adults due to their immune systems not being as strong. Specifically, however, those with chronic health conditions, weakened immune systems or lung problems have the highest chance of developing severe symptoms. It is essential to monitor the severity of the symptoms as some cases of pneumonia can cause hospitalization.

At-home treatment options

If your child is experiencing pneumonia symptoms, always bring them in for a consultation and proper diagnosis. The same symptoms can be the result of other illnesses. Antibiotics can be a treatment for bacterial pneumonia. Make sure your child takes the entire prescription. Just because they start to feel better does not mean the antibiotic should be stopped.

Viral pneumonia does not have a medication that will help cure it. Ensure your child gets plenty of rest, as this will allow their immune system to recover and fight off the virus. They should also get plenty of clear fluids to help maintain hydration. Using a humidifier can help thin out mucus to alleviate a cough. Always speak with a doctor before giving your child any medication for their fever. Do not give your child Asprin.

If you think your child may have pneumonia, visit AFC Urgent Care Burlington. Our board-certified physicians are trained to give you and your loved ones the best care possible. We will help diagnose pneumonia and provide the best possible treatment options to feel their best.

Pneumonia can be life-threatening in children, as their immune systems have not developed enough to fight off the infection. As a parent, it is important to recognize the signs your child may need emergency medical attention. AFC Urgent are Burlington can help you learn those signs and what the best treatment options are. If you think your child may have pneumonia, visit AFC Urgent Care Burlington today for a diagnosis. We offer treatment for a variety of general illnesses.

Signs of pneumonia

There is a variety of bacteria or viruses that can cause pneumonia. One effective way to prevent your child from getting pneumonia is by getting a flu shot if they are older than 6 months. Bacterial pneumonia causes symptoms to show up suddenly, and can be treated with an antibiotic. They can range from mild to severe, depending on the cause. Symptoms of pneumonia in children include:

  • Cough, which can be painful, that produces mucus
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Fatigue
  • Fever

Viral pneumonia symptoms show up more gradually, and typically begin with the cough and shortness of breath.

Risk-factors

Children are at the highest risk of complications, compared to adults, due to their immune systems not being as strong. Specifically, however, those with chronic health conditions, weakened immune systems, or lungs problems have the highest chance of developing severe symptoms. It is important to monitor the severity of the symptoms as some cases of pneumonia can cause hospitalization.

At-home treatment options

If you child is experiencing symptoms of pneumonia, always bring them in for a consultation and proper diagnosis. The same symptoms can be the result of other illnesses. Antibiotics can be a treatment for bacterial pneumonia. Make sure your child takes the entire prescription. Just because they start to feel better does not mean the antibiotic should be stopped.

Viral pneumonia does not have a medication that will help cure it. Make sure your child gets plenty of rest, as this will allow their immune system to recover and fight off the virus. Getting plenty of fluids and using a humidifier can help thin out the mucus and relieve a cough. Always speak with a doctor before giving your child any medication for their fever. Do not give your child Asprin.

If you think your child may have pneumonia, visit AFC Urgent Care Burlington. Our board-certified physicians are trained to give you and your loved ones the best care possible. We will help diagnosis the pneumonia, and give the best possible treatment options to have them feeling their best.

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