It is always hard to see your children not feel well! It seems like there are so many different illnesses that could infect your child, especially in the winter months. Upper respiratory illnesses like bronchitis and pneumonia are possibilities, alongside more common illnesses like colds or the flu.

While anyone can get pneumonia and bronchitis, it can be particularly dangerous for young children to contract these types of upper respiratory infections.

Want to know more? The AFC Urgent Care Arden team explains it all below!

What Are the Signs of Bronchitis and Pneumonia?

Both of these infections affect your child’s airways, but bronchitis irritates the bronchial tubes while pneumonia irritates the alveoli, which are tiny air sacs in your child’s lungs. A deep cough that produces mucus is a classic symptom of upper respiratory infections. In addition, a fever and chest discomfort are also common.

One thing to note about pneumonia is that individuals tend to feel worse from a pneumonia infection than with bronchitis. Bronchitis symptoms often stay in the chest area where the infection is located. Pneumonia symptoms can spread throughout the body and cause chills, body aches and an overall unwell feeling.

Those at Risk of Severe Pneumonia

• Children with chronic illness like heart or lung disorders
• Anyone who has asthma
• Premature infants
• People with compromised immune systems

Should I Bring My Child in for a Diagnosis?

If you are ever concerned about any symptoms your child is exhibiting, it is always best to err on the side of caution and come in for an evaluation! We can do a thorough examination and get a health history for your child. If he or she is over the age of 6 months, we can also perform an X-ray to get an in-depth look at what is causing your child discomfort.

An X-ray allows us to see exactly where the infection has taken place, so we can determine if it is bronchitis or pneumonia at that time. Once we have a diagnosis, we can offer treatment options that will help your child feel better in no time!

When to Seek Emergency Medical Attention for Pneumonia

• If your child is having trouble breathing
• If your child’s fingernails or lips have a blue or gray color
• If your child has a high-grade fever of 102 degrees or higher
• Your child is younger than 6 months of age

Does your child have a concerning cough? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Arden today.