How to Help Children With Pneumonia
Pneumonia is caused by a virus or a bacterial infection in the lungs. This infection is most often caused by the flu or the cold virus. The airways become infected and blocked by a sticky fluid-like mucous, making it difficult for the child to breathe. This in turn reduces the amount of oxygen available to the child's body. A doctor confirms pneumonia in a child by taking X-rays, which show any fluid in the lungs. Most children recover quickly and completely with proper treatment.
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Instructions
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Keep your child rested. Your child's body needs to recuperate. Make him a comfy place to sleep on a couch or bed where you can hear him if he needs you. If he can't sleep, provide activities that will keep him there quietly.
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Prop up your child. Use pillows or cushions to prop her upper body into a semi-sitting position to aid breathing. This will also help prevent coughing.
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Keep your child hydrated. Offer the child plenty of fluids such as water, juice or weak
tea. Dehydration hampers recovery from pneumonia. -
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Lessen your child's pain. Ask thew physician if you can use a pain reliever if the child is having chest pain from coughing.
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Tips & Warnings
Check with your child's physician before offering cough medicine. It won't help pneumonia in most cases and can actually prevent healing.
Antibiotics will help with bacterial pneumonia. Make sure your child finishes all medications as prescribed. Viral pneumonia will have to run its course naturally.
Call the doctor if the child's temperature goes over 102 degrees Fahrenheit in older infants or children or over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in infants six months old or younger, or if the child's lips or fingernails turn blue.
Don't smoke or allow anyone else to smoke around your child.
