Home >  Information A-Z >  All Kids Information Articles >  Pneumonia

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a very serious illness for a child to get, and can cause many problems, even death in infants. This means it is important for parents to recognize the symptoms and seek medical treatment as quickly as possible for their child. The following is information for parents about pneumonia in children.

• Symptoms—
Symptoms of pneumonia can vary quite a bit depending on the age of the ill child and the cause. It is important for parents to try to know exactly what symptoms their child has because many symptoms can lead the doctor in the correct direction of treatment (the cause of the pneumonia can lead to different tell-tale symptoms):

• Chest pain

• Common cold symptoms

• Cough

• Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing

• Wheezing or grunting sounds when breathing

• Labored breathing (this means that if you watch your child breath, you will be able to see their chest draw inward with each breath)

• Vomiting

• Chills

• Fever

• Decreased activity

• Loss of appetite or normal eating habits

• Bluish or gray lips and fingernails

•Treatment—
Treatment will depend largely on the age of the child, the type of pneumonia the child has, and the severity of the illness. It can include antibiotics and over the counter medications, or it could mean hospitalization. Some types of pneumonia are caused by a virus, and in this case, they are unable to be treated with antibiotics. Instead, you can only treat the symptoms and wait for the virus to dissipate.

• Contagiousness—
Pneumonia is very contagious, so it is important to keep your child away from any children who have it, as well as keeping them away from people if they are sick with it. How long your child will be contagious will depend solely on what type of pneumonia they have. If it is a virus, it may be contagious longer, since antibiotics will likely not be given. If your child has pneumonia, you should ask your pediatrician how long your child will be contagious, and keep them out of school for however long they say.

Copyright 2010. All educational materials are the sole property of Kid First Internet and are available for the benefit of our parents. Duplication or use of any material requires the express consent of Kids First Internet.




Browse information articles by category:

Babies
Toddlers
Kids
Health and Safety
Nutrition and Feeding
Bathing
Behavior and Discipline
Diapers and Potty Training
Playtime activities and toys
Clothing
Napping and Nighttime

View All Articles

Kids Bedding Information Center:

Nursery and Crib Safety
Allergy Information
Kids Bedding Gift Giving
Bedding Themes
Crib and Nursery Sizes
Typical Prices
Bedding Production
Cleaning
Materials and Fabrics
Boys Bedding and Girls Bedding

Kids and Baby Bedding Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best kids bedding brands? A look at some of the best kids bedding sets.

What comes in the different crib and nursery sets? Know exactly what you are ordering - before you order.

How do I choose the perfect kids bedding gift? Here are three simple rules for picking out a wonderful kids bedding or baby bedding set!

How can I create a safe nursery? A short article on safety and kids bedding and baby bedding.

How do I clean my kids bedding? Tips and directions to make your kids bedding set last forever.

How long does it take for my kids bedding purchase to arrive? Read about why it is important to order kids bedding several weeks in advance.

Why buy kids bedding or baby bedding online? Learn why we can offer the best prices on kids bedding.