Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that causes heavy breathing, a fever and vomiting. Young infants are at high risk for pneumonia; if the infection is left untreated, complications can arise, such as acute respiratory distress syndrome. Seek immediate medical attention for your infant; diagnosis and treatment should begin as soon as possible.
Identification
In addition to heavy breathing, a fever and vomiting, pneumonia causes wheezing, shortness of breath, nasal flaring and coughing. Chills and body aches accompany a fever and an overall feeling of malaise. Your infant may feed less from the breast or bottle because pneumonia can decrease his appetite, according to KidsHealth.org. In severe cases, your infant's lips and nails turn a bluish-gray color, according to KidsHealth.org. Your infant may sleep more than usual because of increased fatigue.
Cause
Pneumonia itself is not contagious. However, the underlying cause of the pneumonia is contagious. Pneumonia can result from viruses that cause the common cold, flu and respiratory syncytial virus. Pneumonia can also result from a bacterial infection, such as with a complication of whooping cough. The most common bacterium to cause pneumonia is streptococcus pneumonia, according to MayoClinic.com. The viruses and bacteria that spread pneumonia are found in the throat and nasal secretions of an infected person; the disease can be spread if your infant inhales air droplets from an infected person's sneeze, cough or laugh. Infants are at risk for pneumonia because their immune systems are still developing.
Treatment
Antibiotics are used if the pneumonia is bacterial. It can take several tries of different antibiotic medications before your infant's doctor is able to find the prescription that's best for your infant's pneumonia. It's important for your infant to finish all medication exactly as prescribed and for the full duration to avoid a returning infection that is resistant to treatment. If your infant's pneumonia is caused by whooping cough or some other bacterial pneumonia, hospitalization is necessary. Hospitalization is necessary because of the heavy breathing since your baby may be lacking necessary oxygen, according to KidsHealth.org. A vomiting baby is unable to keep medication down, so hospitalization to prevent dehydration and give medication through an IV is necessary. Acetaminophen reduces your infant's fever, but consult with a doctor for proper dosage based on your baby's weight.
Prevention
A seasonal flu shot and keeping up-to-date on all childhood vaccinations can decrease your infant's risk of pneumonia, according to MayoClinic.com. A vaccine is available that protects your infants against pneumococcal conjugate to prevent pneumonia. Keep your infant away from people who appear sick; do not allow anyone to hold or feed your baby without washing their hands first. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces with diluted bleach to minimize the amount of germs in your household. Avoid taking your baby in public during flu season.
