Pneumonia is a lung infection that can cause inflammation and mucus buildup in the lower airways and sacs. Symptoms include a fever and chills, cough, heavy breathing, weakness, and malaise. Common causes in children include viruses like influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and bacteria, including pneumococcal pneumonia and mycoplasma. Pneumonia is spread via direct contact with respiratory droplets, which carry the infection through coughing or sneezing into the air. Diagnosis is mainly confirmed by checking vital signs, performing a physical examination, listening to the lungs, and using X-ray imaging. Childhood pneumonia can be troubling as a parent and knowing when to seek help can be disconcerting. Here are three warning signs to be aware of that could be lifesaving.

Check the temperature

1. The severity of symptoms from pneumonia will vary in the pediatric population depending on age, cause of infection, and underlying medical conditions like asthma. A rise in body temperature is indicative of active infection. The average body temperature is 98.6F, and a fever is defined as a temperature of 100.4F or above. A fever is a physiologic response signifying the immune system is engaged and fighting infection. However, a healthcare provider should be notified if a fever lasts longer than 5 days or exceeds 104F.

Monitor breathing closely

2. One of the most concerning signs of childhood pneumonia is difficulty breathing, which can manifest in various ways. Common indicators of respiratory distress include shallow, deep breathing, wheezing, grunting, tripoding or sitting upright to breathe, diaphragmatic breathing, or using abdominal muscles to squeeze a breath. Flaring nostrils is also a sign that a child might need help. Additionally, rapid breathing exceeding 20 respirations per minute (RPM) indicates a need for medical attention.

Drink up and prevent dehydration

3. During illness, the body increases metabolic requirements to fight infection by the immune system. Children are especially vulnerable when battling a fever, which requires further metabolic demands. Dehydration can readily develop through sweating, rapid breathing, and decreased oral intake due to poor appetite and discomfort. Vomiting is common during these disease states, compromising fluid status even more. Inadequate hydration can be determined by looking for eyes that are sunken in, infrequent wet diapers or urination, decreased tear production, and a dry or sticky mouth. A healthcare provider should be notified if any of these findings are recognized.

Proactive measures that every caregiver should know

Childhood pneumonia requires close monitoring to ensure a speedy recovery and good outcome. Regular temperature checks can help identify and track fevers, signaling close observation of duration lasting more than 5 days and peak temperature above 104F. Breathing patterns are equally important and should raise concern when too rapid or the child appears uncomfortable with wheezing, tripoding or grunting. Monitoring for signs of dehydration by checking the skin, urine and tear production, and fluid losses are also vital in avoiding a danger zone. By proactively addressing these factors, caregivers can provide the necessary support for a healthy recovery.