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Pneumonia is a significant health issue for newborns and small children. They are at high risk as their still-developing immune systems are not yet equipped to handle the bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can cause symptoms of pneumonia.

Each year, an estimated 530,000 infants worldwide die from pneumonia, making it the leading infectious cause of death in children under five.

To ensure that your baby is safe from pneumonia and able to stay healthy, it is important to understand what this condition is and how to recognize, manage, and prevent it.

Night Lite Pediatrics offers pneumonia in infants treatment for Florida residents. For more information, contact us directly.

What is Pneumonia
in infants?

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. In infants, pneumonia can be very serious and can require intensive treatment to ensure a full recovery.

Even though bacteria, viruses, and fungi can all cause pneumonia, viruses are the most common cause in babies.

Additionally, it is important to practice good hygiene and keep your infant away from people who are sick to help prevent the spread of pneumonia.

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Common causes of Pneumonia in babies

The most common causes of pneumonia in babies are viruses such as Influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). 

Other potential causes include bacterial infections such as Streptococcus pneumonia and Haemophilus influenza type b. Fungi can also cause pneumonia in newborns, but this is much rarer.

In addition to the above causes, pneumonia can also be caused by aspiration of food or liquid, or by a weakened immune system due to a pre-existing medical condition.

Symptoms of Pneumonia in babies

The symptoms of pneumonia in infants depend on the type of organism causing the infection. Generally, symptoms include:

In some cases, your baby may vomit or have diarrhea as well. It is important to note that some babies may not show any symptoms of pneumonia.

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Risks of Pneumonia
in infants

Pneumonia in younger children can be a serious condition that can lead to complications. Risk factors include lung abscesses, sepsis, dehydration, organ failure, and even death.

While these complications are rare, they can occur if the infection is not treated promptly and properly managed.

Children older than two are more likely to develop severe pneumonia, which can be dangerous if not treated promptly. Most children make a full recovery.

Pneumonia Pediatrics Treatment

Before the correct treatment can be recommended, pneumonia must be correctly diagnosed, typically via a physical exam. The doctor listens to the infant’s chest and checks for signs of infection.

Tests, such as a chest X-ray, blood tests, and sputum (mucus) tests, may also be required. Other tests, such as a CT scan, may be used to help diagnose more complex cases.

Treatment may include:

  • rest
  • fluids
  • antipyretics (medications to reduce fever)
  • antibiotics
  • mechanical ventilation – oxygen therapy may be necessary to help your baby’s lungs heal

If your child is not responding to treatment or there are worsening symptoms, the healthcare provider may need to adjust the treatment plan. In some more severe cases, infants may be hospitalized.

Pneumonia in toddlers treatment vs pneumonia in babies treatment

The treatment for pneumonia in toddlers and babies is similar. Both require antibiotics, rest, and fluids. In addition, babies may be given a breathing treatment such as oxygen therapy.

Toddlers may need to be monitored more closely to ensure they are taking in enough fluids and getting enough rest.

What is the cost of pediatric pneumonia treatment?

The treatment costs for pediatric pneumonia will depend on a number of factors, including the cause, if further tests are required, the severity of the case and the decided-upon treatment plan.

We also accept most major medical health insurance policies and self-pay options.

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Urgent Care near me for pediatric pneumonia

Night Lite Pediatrics is comprised of notable physicians in pediatric urgent care and pediatric critical care medicine who are also well-recognized in the Central Florida medical community. 

Our clinics are open seven days a week, accommodating walk-ins and suggested arrival times. You can contact us at any of our 13 Florida locations listed below:

How to book an appointment

FAQs

Below you can find a list of common questions and answers regarding pediatric pneumonia.

This will depend on the severity of the condition, the underlying cause of pneumonia, and the overall health of the infant. Treatment may include antibiotics, respiratory support, supplemental oxygen, and other supportive measures such as fluids and nutrition.

Babies can be admitted to the hospital for pneumonia if they show severe symptoms or do not seem to be getting better with the prescribed treatment.

Chronic lung diseases such as asthma can cause your airways to swell and become blocked with mucus, which can make it hard to breathe and leaves your respiratory system more susceptible to infections like pneumococcal pneumonia.

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is an infection of the lungs that is acquired outside of a hospital or other healthcare facility.

It can be caused by a variety of bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Symptoms of CAP can include fever, cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, rest, and fluids.

If your child is suffering from a mild case of pneumonia, they should expect to recover in 2 to 3 weeks. However, if the pneumonia is more severe, it may take up to 6 to 8 weeks or even longer for them to get better.

If your child is experiencing any of the following symptoms: difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent fever (102 F/39 C or higher), or persistent cough (especially if it’s accompanied by pus), you should seek urgent care immediately.

This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment. It is aimed at presenting a perspective only and is not a substitute for a prescription. Anyone experiencing a medical condition should consult their doctor.

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