What Are the Symptoms of Pneumonia in Children?
Jun 06, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Children with pneumonia may experience symptoms such as fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Most children with pneumonia will likely develop fever. Body temperature may rise significantly—up to 38°C. Fever caused by pneumonia typically persists for 2–3 days; even after administration of antipyretics, body temperature often rebounds shortly after declining. This differs from fever associated with the common cold in children, which is usually shorter in duration and typically remains below 38°C.
Pneumonia is very common in children, primarily due to their underdeveloped immune systems. It can impair a child’s respiratory function. Severe pneumonia may lead to heart failure and respiratory failure. Therefore, once these symptoms appear, parents should promptly take their child to see a healthcare provider. So, what are the clinical manifestations of pneumonia in children?
What Are the Symptoms of Pneumonia in Children?
Children with pneumonia commonly present with fever, cough, and dyspnea (difficulty breathing). Most affected children develop fever, often reaching temperatures as high as 38°C. Fever caused by pneumonia typically persists for 2–3 days; even after antipyretic medication temporarily lowers body temperature, it tends to rebound shortly thereafter. This differs from fevers associated with the common cold, which are usually shorter in duration and rarely exceed 38°C. Cough and dyspnea are also frequent symptoms. In contrast, cough and dyspnea are generally absent in pneumonia secondary to the common cold or bronchitis. If a child exhibits severe coughing, wheezing, or cyanosis (bluish discoloration) of the lips, immediate medical attention—and possibly hospitalization—is warranted.
The severity of pneumonia symptoms varies among children. In infants and newborns, pneumonia often develops rapidly. Common signs include fever, cough, tachypnea (rapid breathing), wheezing, grunting, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and diminished or absent bowel sounds. On auscultation, fixed fine crackles (moist rales) may be heard over the lungs, along with wheezing. In severe cases, children may exhibit marked dyspnea, cyanosis or pallor, nasal flaring, lethargy, and tachycardia.
Pneumonia in children most frequently occurs during winter and spring. Regarding diet, patients with pneumonia are advised to consume ample vegetables and fruits. We hope this information is helpful to you.
