Pneumonia in young children can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, with symptoms including fever, respiratory problems, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and signs of oxygen deprivation. Bacterial pneumonia typically has a more rapid onset of fever and more severe symptoms.
Pneumonia in young children is typically caused by a viral or bacterial infection, and while the symptoms are often similar for both forms, the symptoms a child displays can present very differently depending on which type they have. Both forms generally cause a fever, but the fever from bacterial pneumonia often comes on more quickly and is higher than from viral pneumonia. Respiratory problems typically accompany both types, although in cases of viral infection the problem usually develops slowly from the initial cold-like symptoms. Vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite can occur with both types. Some other possible symptoms include weakness, a rapid pulse, or signs of oxygen deprivation.
Fever is a very common symptom of pneumonia in young children. They may also have body aches or chills along with the high temperature. In the case of a viral infection, the fever is typically moderate to high and increases relatively slowly. With bacterial pneumonia, which is generally considered the most severe form, the onset of fever is rapid and becomes very high in a short period of time.
A variety of respiratory problems typically affect children with pneumonia. Children usually develop a cough and often pass mucus while coughing. They may also start wheezing, particularly during sleep. They may have difficulty breathing; in severe cases, the nostrils may flare or the chest may sink as the child struggles to breathe. Some children may also complain of chest pain. Again, with bacterial types, these symptoms come on quickly, while with viruses, they can start off fairly mild, similar to a common cold or the flu, and then steadily get worse over time.
In addition to respiratory problems, pneumonia in young children can also affect the digestive system. Both viral and bacterial infections can lead to stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some children may lose their appetite and refuse to eat, particularly with bacterial pneumonia where they get sick very quickly.
Several other symptoms can also indicate the presence of pneumonia in young children. Fever, repeated coughing fits, and difficulty breathing can make a child weak or lethargic. This is common to viral and bacterial infections. In more severe bacterial cases, children with pneumonia may have a fast heart rate. For those who have trouble getting enough oxygen, the lips or skin under the nails may appear bluish; again, this is more common with bacterial infections.
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