#asktheexpert My child keeps getting pneumonia and coughing and he starts having breathing problems the next day.

Question

Accepted Answer

Recurring pneumonia and breathing problems in children can be concerning and may require thorough evaluation by a pediatrician. If your child keeps getting pneumonia and develops breathing issues like coughing and shortness of breath quickly, here are a few possibilities and steps you can consider:

Potential Causes:

1. Weak Immune System: Recurrent infections could be due to a weakened immune system, making it harder for your child to fight off infections.

2. Asthma or Reactive Airway Disease: Some children have asthma, which can cause breathing difficulties, frequent coughs, and make them more prone to respiratory infections like pneumonia.

3. Allergies: Environmental allergies can trigger respiratory issues and make a child more susceptible to infections. Exposure to allergens like dust mites, mold, or pet dander might worsen the situation.

4. Congenital or Structural Lung Issues: Some children have underlying structural issues in their lungs or airways that predispose them to respiratory infections.

5. Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD): GERD can cause stomach acids to enter the lungs, leading to irritation, coughing, and sometimes pneumonia.

6. Chronic Lung Diseases: If the child was born prematurely or has had other respiratory issues, they might be more prone to lung infections.

What You Can Do:

1. Visit a Pediatrician or Pediatric Pulmonologist: A doctor can perform necessary tests, including chest X-rays, blood tests, and possibly lung function tests, to get to the root cause of recurring pneumonia and breathing issues.

2. Asthma Management: If asthma or reactive airway disease is diagnosed, the doctor may prescribe inhalers, nebulizers, or other medications to help manage symptoms and prevent infections from triggering breathing problems.

3. Hygiene and Immunization: Ensure your child is up to date with vaccinations like the pneumococcal vaccine, which protects against certain types of pneumonia. Frequent hand washing, avoiding crowded places during flu season, and ensuring clean indoor air can also reduce the risk of infections.

4. Environmental Control: Try to reduce exposure to potential allergens or irritants at home, such as dust, smoke, or pet dander. Use air purifiers and clean bedding frequently.

5. Breathing Support: If your child has difficulty breathing during a coughing episode, consult your doctor about the possibility of using a nebulizer with saline or medications to open up the airways.

6. Monitor Symptoms Closely: Early intervention is key. At the first sign of a cough or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention, as early treatment can help prevent the condition from worsening.

Pneumonia and breathing issues can sometimes be a sign of an underlying problem, so seeking thorough medical guidance is important.