Most cases of pneumonia follow a viral upper respiratory tract infection. Pneumonia is also caused by bacterial infections. If a viral infection has irritated the airway enough or weakened a child's immune system, bacteria may begin to grow in the lung; this adds a second infection to the original one. Pneumonia usually produces a fever, which may cause sweating, chills, flushed skin and discomfort. A child also may lose their appetite and seem less energetic than normal. Babies and toddlers may seem pale and limp, and cry more than usual.
There has been a recent increase in Mycoplasma pneumoniae (M. pneumoniae) infections, especially in children. M. pneumoniae is a common reason for mild respiratory illness. It can also cause a less severe form of pneumonia known as "walking pneumonia."
Because pneumonia can cause breathing difficulties, you may notice these other, more specific symptoms, too:
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Cough
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Fast, labored breathing
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Drawing in of the skin between and around the ribs and breastbone
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Flaring (widening) of the nostrils
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Pain in the chest, particularly with coughing or deep breathing
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Wheezing
- Pale, gray or bluish-colored lips or nail beds, depending on skin tone, caused by decreased oxygen in the bloodstream
If your child shows any signs of troubled breathing, call the office for guidance. Our triage nurses will determine if your child needs to be evaluated in the office or refer you on to urgent care/emergency room.
