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Not every cough is a pneumonia. In fact, very few of them are. So how do you tell when a simple respiratory infection becomes a pneumonia. Read the following handout for more information on pneumonia.
 

Not every cough is a pneumonia. In fact, very few of them are. So how do you tell when a simple respiratory infection becomes a pneumonia. Read the following handout for more information on pneumonia.

 
 

WHAT IS PNEUMONIA?

Pneumonia is an infection of the lung(s). The air sacs (alveoli) in the lung(s) fill with fluid. This makes it harder to breathe because oxygen is not efficiently being exchanged in the lungs.

COMMON SYMPTOMS OF PNEUMONIA

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Rapid breathing
  • Cough
  • Fever

These symptoms usually occur a few days after cold symptoms develop.

CAUSES OF PNEUMONIA

Pneumonia may be caused by a virus or bacteria. Most (75 to 80 percent) of pneumonias are caused by viruses. A child who has bacterial pneumonia is usually more ill than a child with viral pneumonia.

COURSE OF THE ILLNESS

Viral pneumonia is not treated with antibiotics; it has to run its course. Antibiotics do not change the course of a viral illness. Consequently, viral pneumonia can last as long as two to four weeks. Bacterial pneumonia is treated with antibiotics and USUALLY improves within 24 to 48 hours after starting treatment.

TREATMENT

Most children with pneumonia can be treated at home.

  • Antibiotics—If your child has bacterial pneumonia, he/she will need an antibiotic. Your child needs to receive the antibiotic for the prescribed amount of time and doses. If you have any questions or concerns about your child's medications, call your clinic.
  • Fever Control—If your child has a fever (HIGHER THAN 102 degrees) or feels uncomfortable, you may treat your child's fever with acetaminophen (i.e. Tylenol, Tempra) and/or ibuprofen (i.e. Motrin, Advil).
  • Loosen Secretions—Encourage your child to drink many liquids. Fluids help keep the secretions in your child's lungs loose, so he/she can more easily cough up the secretions.
  • Avoid Tobacco Smoke—Tobacco smoke makes your child's cough worse and may make it last longer. Keep your child out of smoky areas.

WHEN TO CALL THE PHYSICIAN

  • if your child has a more difficult time breathing.
  • if your child has blue lips.
  • if your child makes grunting sounds when breathing.
  • if your child is not drinking fluids and is having decreased urine out.
  • if your child continues to have a fever 48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment.
  • if your child Is getting worse.
 

 
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