Symptoms of pneumonia in infants

Symptoms of pneumonia in infants: How to recognize lung inflammation

Pneumonia, or inflammation of the lungs, is an acute infection that affects the alveoli, the smallest air sacs in the lungs. In response to the infection, the alveoli fill with fluid and pus, which significantly impairs breathing. In infants, due to the immaturity of the immune and respiratory systems, pneumonia can develop very quickly and progress severely, so this condition always requires hospitalization.

How can an infant develop pneumonia?

Pneumonia can be primary or secondary, i.e., a complication of another disease. The causes can vary:

• Viruses: Respiratory syncytial virus (the cause of bronchiolitis), influenza and parainfluenza viruses are common causes of viral pneumonia.
• Bacteria: Pneumococcus (Streptococcus pneumoniae) and Haemophilus influenzae type b are the most common agents of bacterial pneumonia. The best protection against them is timely vaccination.
• Aspiration: Entry of milk, formula, or stomach contents into the lungs during severe reflux.

Key symptoms that should raise alarm

Pneumonia can be suspected based on a combination of general and respiratory symptoms. Usually it starts as a cold, but the child's condition does not improve and, on the contrary, worsens.

• High temperature that is poorly reduced.
• Strong, frequent cough, which may be dry or wet.
• Signs of respiratory distress: very rapid breathing, shortness of breath, retractions of the chest wall.
• General intoxication: the child is very sluggish, sleepy (lethargy), refuses to eat.
• Sometimes — cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the perioral triangle).

The diagnosis “pneumonia” can be confirmed only by a doctor after examination, lung auscultation, and, if necessary, a chest X‑ray. Do not attempt to treat this condition at home. Read about other respiratory symptoms in our guide.