Pneumonia, a severe respiratory infection, is a significant health threat for children worldwide. Despite being preventable, the disease remains the leading infectious cause of death among children under five years old and newborns. We at Family Care Centers Medical Group strongly advocate for quality healthcare and proper preventive measures to protect our children from this preventable yet deadly disease.
Understanding Pneumonia in Children
Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, causing cough with phlegm or pus, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. Various organisms, including bacteria, viruses, or fungi, can cause pneumonia.
Causes of Pneumonia
Pneumonia doesn't have a solitary cause. It can stem from various bacteria, viruses, or fungi present in the air. Once a child is infected, fluid fills their lungs, making breathing difficult. Newborns and children with weak immune systems are particularly susceptible.
Symptoms of Pneumonia
The most common symptoms of pneumonia are:
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever
Children with pneumonia may breathe rapidly, or their chest may retract when inhaling, unlike healthy individuals whose chests expand during inhalation.
Diagnosing Pneumonia in Children
Health workers can diagnose pneumonia through a physical exam, checking for abnormal breathing patterns and listening to the child's lungs. In countries with less developed healthcare systems, health workers often rely on counting the number of breaths a child takes per minute to diagnose pneumonia.
The Role of Oxygen in Treating Pneumonia
Oxygen is a critical component in treating severe pneumonia. The inflammation in the lungs caused by the infection prevents sufficient oxygen from entering the bloodstream. In many countries with underdeveloped healthcare systems, oxygen access is only available at higher-level health facilities and hospitals.
Pneumonia Prevention
Pneumonia prevention involves increasing protective measures, such as proper nutrition, and reducing risk factors like air pollution and poor hygiene practices. Vaccines are also a vital part of pneumonia prevention.
Conclusion
Pneumonia is a preventable disease, yet it remains a leading cause of death among children worldwide. Immediate action is necessary to end these preventable deaths. Family Care Centers Medical Group is committed to providing quality healthcare services, including urgent care for pneumonia treatment in Orange County, CA.
We believe that every child has the right to live a healthy life, free from preventable diseases like pneumonia.Visit our location Irvine Woodbridge Walk-In Urgent Care, Fountain Valley Urgent Care and Costa Mesa Urgent Care.
