Pneumonia in Children
agesandstagespediatricgroup.com
PNEUMONIA Pneumonia is an acute respiratory infection that affects the lungs. The causes of this condition have many explanations, but it can develop from bacteria growth, viruses, or fungi in the air. Pneumonia in children is a serious concern for parents because the child’s lungs fill with fluids that make it difficult for them to breathe. Children with immature immune systems (for example, newborns) or weak (due to malnutrition or diseases such as HIV) are more susceptible to pneumonia.
Each year around 4 million children under five years of age die from acute respiratory infections worldwide. In more than 90% of cases, the leading cause of death is pneumonia. However, the maximum incidence of pneumonia occurs in winter and early spring, with a high possibility of contagion during the cold months. And the most common causes of community-acquired pneumonia in children (70-90% of cases) are viral infections.
Transmission of Pneumonia Pneumonia can spread in many ways. For example, when children breathe, their lungs can be infected by viruses and bacteria commonly found in their noses or throats.
VIRAL AND BACTERIAL PNEUMONIA Viral pneumonia is an infection caused by a virus. Most patients experiencing pneumonia get diseases as the flu caused by the common cold and other viruses. On the other hand, according to some studies, many viruses that cause viral pneumonia have been identified in recent years. Among these viruses, we can mention the human metapneumovirus, Coronavirus (SARS-Cov Virus), and the influenza virus A (H1N1).
Bacterial pneumonia is an infection of your lungs caused by certain bacteria. Streptococcus (pneumococcus) is the most common pneumonia cause, and these bacteria can live in the throat without causing any trouble. However, immune system-related problems can trigger pneumonia in vulnerable patients such as elderlies, people with chronic conditions (asthma, diabetes, or heart disease) and tobacco habits, and others.
SYMPTOMS
Fever Dry cough Headache Blue lips and fingernails when experiencing hypoxia Sore throat Fatigue (feeling very tired) Loss of appetite Muscle pain
TREATMENT
Pneumonia is commonly treated with antibiotics. However, they cannot kill viruses, and viral pneumonia has to run its course while symptoms are treated.
agesandstagespediatricgroup.com