PNEUMONIA in children

Pneumonia is an infection in the lungs. It can be mild or serious. Pneumonia is generally more common in children younger than 5 years old and can be caused by different organisms. 

Pneumonia is most often caused by bacteria or viruses. Some of these bacteria and viruses can spread by direct contact/ coughing/ sneezing from an infected person.

Common bacteria and viruses that may cause pneumonia are:

• Streptococcus pneumoniae
• Mycoplasma pneumonia. This often causes a mild form of the illness      called walking pneumonia.
• Group B streptococcus
• Staphylococcus aureus
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This is most often seen in children younger than 5 years old.
• Parainfluenza virus
• Influenza virus
• Adenovirus

Pneumonia may sometimes be caused by fungi also which can have serious complications if not treated early.

There are many reasons to get pneumonia in children, few listed are

• Weak immune system, such as immunodeficiency state 
• Ongoing (chronic) health problem, such as asthma or cystic fibrosis
• Inborn developmental problems with the lungs or airways
• Severe bacterial infection
• Un vaccinated children are more at risk
• High bacterial load.
• Hospital or long-term illness in hospital setting

They may also depend on what is causing the pneumonia. Cases of bacterial pneumonia tend to happen suddenly with these symptoms:

• Wet cough
• Chest pain
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Loss of appetite
• Tiredness (fatigue)
• Fever

In addition to the symptoms listed above, your child may have:

• Chills
• Fast or hard breathing
• Headache
• Fussiness

Your doctor can often diagnose pneumonia with a full health history and physical exam. They may need these tests to confirm the diagnosis like 

- Chest Xray or CT scan according to the clinical findings

- Ultrasound may sometimes diagnose fluid in the lungs with pneumonia.

- Blood tests including Blood culture helps in identifying the infective organism

Sometimes other procedures like Bronchoscopy can be rarely needed

Treatment may include antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia. No good treatment is available for most viral pneumonias. 

Other treatments can ease symptoms. They may include:

• Plenty of rest
• Getting more fluids
• Cool mist humidifier in your child’s room
• Acetaminophen for fever and discomfort
• Medicine for cough

Some children may be treated in the hospital if they are having severe breathing problems. While in the hospital, treatment may include:

• Antibiotics by IV (intravenous) or by mouth (oral) for bacterial infection
• IV fluids if your child is unable to drink well
• Oxygen therapy if saturation falls.
• Breathing treatments, as ordered by your child’s healthcare provider

Pneumococcal pneumonia can be prevented with a vaccine that protects against 13 types of pneumococcal pneumonia.

o Treatment depends on the cause of the pneumonia.

o Some types of pneumonia can be prevented with a vaccine. Good handwashing and hygiene can also help.