Pneumonia is a serious infection in the lungs that causes the alveoli (small air sacs in the lungs) to be blocked by fluid and pus. If your child has pneumonia, he or she will have difficulty breathing and may not get enough oxygen into the blood.
In children preschool age or younger, viruses are the most common cause of pneumonia. Common viral causes include respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), human metapneumovirus and influenza. Bacteria (like Streptococcus pneumoniae or Staphylococcus aureus) or atypical organisms (like Mycoplasma pneumoniae) may also cause the infection, especially in older children.
These viral infections usually are not as serious in most adults. However, they can cause pneumonia in children because children do not have fully formed immune systems and have smaller airways. Children with immunodeficiencies, asthma, chronic lung diseases, neuromuscular conditions or other chronic diseases may be more likely to get pneumonia. Children who have not received vaccinations or who are exposed to secondhand smoke also have an increased risk for pneumonia.
Pneumonia symptoms typically begin like a common cold and include a runny nose and coughing. Symptoms may then get worse and include a high fever, fast breathing or difficulty breathing. Other symptoms may include fussiness, loss of appetite, chest or abdominal pain and vomiting.
Diagnosis of Pneumonia
Riley at IU Health doctors can use simple tests to determine if your child has pneumonia. These include:
- Medical history. During a medical history exam, the doctor will ask you many questions about your child’s health. The doctor may ask what your child’s symptoms are, when the symptoms began and about your child’s previous medical history.
- Physical exam. The doctor will take your child's temperature, examine his or her ears, nose, and throat and listen to the lungs as part of an exam to diagnose pneumonia. Your child may only need a physical exam and medical history for an accurate diagnosis.
- Chest X-ray. In some cases, a doctor may have your child undergo a chest X-ray to reveal blockages in the lungs. Depending on how the blockages appear, doctors may be able to determine if the pneumonia is caused by bacteria or viruses.
- Blood test. Sometimes a blood test can also reveal if bacteria is present in the blood, helping doctors diagnose the cause behind the pneumonia and provide more accurate treatment.
Treatments
Treatments
Your child's doctor will work with you to determine the best way to treat the pneumonia. Many children can be treated for pneumonia at home with oral antibiotics (if the pneumonia is caused by bacteria) and medicines to control symptoms, such as fever reducers. If pneumonia was caused by influenza, antiviral medicines may also help speed up recovery. Your child should rest and drink fluids to prevent dehydration.
Some children with pneumonia may need to be hospitalized to receive supportive care while their bodies fight off the condition. Children who are not getting enough oxygen in their blood will receive supplementary oxygen through an oxygen mask or nose cannula. Children who are not able to eat or drink will receive intravenous (through the vein) fluids so they do not become dehydrated. Children in the hospital may also receive an antibiotic or antiviral medicine through an IV depending on their diagnosis.
Key Points to Remember
Key Points to Remember
- Pneumonia is a serious infection in the lungs that causes the alveoli (small air sacs in the lungs) to be blocked by inflammation and pus.
- Symptoms of pneumonia include fever, coughing, runny nose, fast breathing or difficulty breathing.
- Children are more likely to develop pneumonia than adults, because their immune systems are not fully developed and their airways are smaller.
- Pneumonia is commonly diagnosed with simple tests such as a medical history, physical exam, chest X-ray and/or blood test.
- Pneumonia is treated with antibiotics, antiviral medicines and/or supportive care. Treatment depends on what caused the infection: bacteria or viruses
Support Services & Resources
Support Services & Resources
Visit the websites below to learn more about pneumonia.
Riley at IU Health offers a broad range of supportive services to make life better for families who choose us for their children's care.
The American Lung Association website includes comprehensive information on pneumonia symptoms, risk factors and treatments.
Find out how to lower your child’s risk for pneumonia on the CDC website.