Pneumonia in Children
Overview
Pneumonia is a serious lung infection that makes it hard for children to breathe and get enough oxygen. It can affect one or both lungs and is caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi. In India, pneumonia remains one of the leading causes of illness in children under five, especially during the winter and monsoon seasons. With timely medical care and the right treatment, most children recover fully.
- Symptoms of Pneumonia in Children
- Symptoms can appear suddenly or develop over a few days. Look out for:
- Persistent cough, sometimes with mucus or phlegm
- Fast or difficult breathing
- Wheezing or noisy breathing
- High fever with chills
- Loss of appetite or refusal to feed (in babies)
- Fatigue and unusual sleepiness
- Bluish lips or fingertips (sign of low oxygen – emergency)
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical help immediately if your child has:
- Rapid or labored breathing
- High fever that does not improve with medicines
- Persistent vomiting or inability to drink fluids
- Seizures or episodes of unconsciousness
- Signs of dehydration (no urine for 6–8 hours, dry lips, sunken eyes)
- Bluish discoloration of lips, tongue, or skin
Causes and Risk Factors
Children can develop pneumonia due to:
- Viruses: RSV, influenza, adenovirus
- Bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae
- Fungi (less common)
Risk factors include:
- Premature birth or low birth weight
- Malnutrition or poor immunity
- Exposure to air pollution or second-hand smoke
- Lack of vaccination (pneumococcal, Hib, influenza)
Diagnosis
At Ankura Hospitals, our pediatric specialists diagnose pneumonia using:
- Physical exam: listening to chest sounds
- Chest X-ray: to check lung involvement
- Blood tests: to identify infection
- Pulse oximetry: to measure oxygen levels
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cause and severity:
- Viral pneumonia: Rest, fluids, fever control, and oxygen if required
- Bacterial pneumonia: Antibiotics prescribed by the pediatrician
- Hospitalization: For severe cases, especially in infants and young children
- Supportive care: Oxygen therapy, IV fluids, nebulization, and close monitoring in our Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)
Home Care & Prevention
- Ensure your child drinks plenty of fluids
- Give medicines as prescribed, do not stop antibiotics early
- Keep your child warm and rested
- Follow the recommended vaccination schedule (pneumococcal, Hib, influenza)
- Practice good hygiene: handwashing, mask use during flu season
- Protect children from indoor smoke and pollution
Why Choose Ankura Hospitals
- 24x7 Pediatric Emergency Care
- Dedicated Level-3 NICU & PICU for critically ill children
- Experienced Pediatric Pulmonologists & Intensivists
- Child-friendly environment for quicker recovery
- Comprehensive care under one roof — from diagnosis to recovery
Frequently Asked Questions
Our healthcare specialists are equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide you with the support you require. From consultation to diagnosis to treatments, our experts are dedicated to helping you.