Respiratory infections in children, Cause & Treatment

Respiratory infections in children are common and can range from mild to severe. They are normally caused by viruses but can also result from bacterial infections. Below is an overview of common respiratory infections in children, their common symptoms, causes, and normal possible treatment and management:

Common Respiratory Infections in Children

1. Common Cold (Upper Respiratory Tract Infection - URTI)

• Cause: Rhinovirus, adenovirus, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), etc.
• Symptoms: Runny nose, sneezing, cough, mild fever, congestion, sore throat.
• Treatment: Supportive care (fluids, rest, saline nasal drops, fever reducers like acetaminophen/ibuprofen).

2. Croup (Laryngotracheobronchitis)

• Cause: Parainfluenza virus.
• Symptoms: Barking cough, stridor, hoarseness, (high-pitched breathing sound), fever.
• Treatment: Humidified air, oral steroids, nebulized epinephrine in severe cases.

3. Bronchiolitis

• Cause: RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is the most common.
• Symptoms: Wheezing, cough, difficulty breathing, fever, nasal congestion.
• Treatment: Supportive care (oxygen, hydration, suctioning nasal secretions); hospitalization if severe.

4. Influenza (Flu)

• Cause: Influenza virus (A & B).
• Symptoms: High fever, body aches, sore throat, cough, chills, fatigue.
• Treatment: Supportive care; antiviral medications (e.g., oseltamivir) in high-risk cases.

5. Pneumonia

• Cause: Viruses (RSV, influenza), Bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae).
• Symptoms: Fever, cough, fast breathing, chest pain, lethargy.
• Treatment: Viral pneumonia requires supportive care, bacterial pneumonia requires antibiotics.

6. Whooping Cough (Pertussis)

• Cause: Bordetella pertussis bacteria.
• Symptoms: Severe coughing fits followed by "whooping" sound, vomiting after coughing, apnea in infants.
• Treatment: Antibiotics (azithromycin, erythromycin); vaccination (DTaP) for prevention.

7. COVID-19

• Cause: SARS-CoV-2 virus.
• Symptoms: Fever, cough, sore throat, loss of taste/smell, difficulty breathing in severe cases.
• Treatment: Supportive care, oxygen therapy if needed; vaccination helps in prevention.

When to Seek Medical Attention

In case of following symptoms, consult your nearest hospital.

• Difficulty breathing (fast, shallow breathing, flaring nostrils, chest retractions).
• Persistent high fever.
• Bluish lips or face.
• Severe wheezing or stridor.
• Dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, decreased urine output).
• Dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, decreased urine output).
• Lethargy or unresponsiveness.

Prevention

• Frequent handwashing.
• Vaccinations (Flu, COVID-19, DTaP, Pneumococcal, Hib).
• Avoiding exposure to sick individuals.
• Breastfeeding for infant immunity.
• Maintaining good indoor air quality.