PNEUMONIA DUBAI | 29 June 2022
Pneumonia is an infection in the lungs. It can cause breathing problems, a fever, coughing and wheezing. Pneumonia can affect people of any age, but babies and young children are at higher risk because their immune systems are not yet fully developed.
What causes pneumonia in children?
Pneumonia is caused by bacteria or by a virus.
Viruses are a common cause of pneumonia in young children. The most common viral cause is usually respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or influenza (flu) type A or B. The most common bacterial cause is a type of bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae.
What are the symptoms of pneumonia in children?
Children can develop pneumonia at any age, but it is more common in babies and younger children.
Most children can fight pneumonia but some children can become very ill, even if they have no previous or underlying health problems. This is more likely if their immune system is weak.
They symptoms of pneumonia in children may appear suddenly, or develop gradually over a few days.
How is pneumonia diagnosed in children?
Dr Karin Vela will ask you questions and examine your child. She will:
– take their temperature
– check for fast breathing or low oxygen saturation
– listen to their chest
Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria or a virus, but it is almost impossible to separate the symptoms of bacterial pneumonia and viral pneumonia in very young children.
Is it Pneumonia or Bronchiolitis?
The symptoms of bronchiolitis and pneumonia are very similar, especially in children up to 2 years old. The focus should be on treating your child’s symptoms and oxygen levels.