Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that is caused by a number of factors, such as bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi. The bacteria affect the alveoli, causing them to swell up with fluid. Because of the swelling and restriction caused, a person experiences difficulty in breathing. Pneumonia is a condition that can make a person extremely ill and is also known to cause fatalities. Toddlers are also susceptible to contracting the illness and are at higher risk of more severe infections because the immunity levels in the body are still under developed. Children who are malnourished and those who are suffering from colds and coughs are more likely to be affected by pneumonia.
The most common symptoms for
pneumonia in toddlers are manifested in an incessant cough that is accompanied by rusty green mucus that is brought up from the lungs. Fever, breathlessness and chills that are experienced are still other symptoms of pneumonia. On waking up, a child who is suffering from pneumonia may even experience pains in the chest that get worse when breathing deeply. Because the body is unable to get the oxygen it requires, there is a tendency to feel tired after short intervals of any form of work. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and headache are symptoms of a more severe bout of pneumonia, and will soon lead to the patient feeling delirious. Because there is minimal oxygen being absorbed by the blood, the skin may tend to get a purplish tinge. Once you have recognized the symptoms, it is imperative that you get in touch with your pediatrician immediately. Following a chest x ray and scans that are required, the doctor will be able to assess the situation and give you further medical advice.
There are also a number of home remedies that have been known to cure pneumonia in children. Garlic is known for its anti phlegmatic properties and will help to dislodge any phlegm that has collected in the chest. Besides this, it also has anti inflammatory properties that will reduce inflammation of the fibers in the body and relieves breathing stress that is being experienced. While paying heed to the advice given by people who have tried these home remedies, it is important that the patient is given enough rest to assist the body in the healing process. Healthy diets, consisting of fresh fruits and vegetables, must be maintained to further assist healing of the body
Submitted by N on April 15, 2010 at 01:38
Read more questions in Toddler Illness