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what causes pneumonia in babies
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Pediatric Medicine
Question #19110
65 days ago
114

what causes pneumonia in babies - #19110

Om

I am a bit worried about my baby, he’s only 10 months old and has been sick for like a week now. First, it was just some sniffles but then he started coughing and wheezing, which made me freak out a bit. We took him to the pediatrician, and they mentioned something about pneumonia, which totally got me thinking, what causes pneumonia in babies anyway? Like, is it just a cold that progressed, or could it be something more serious? I've heard that bacteria or viruses can cause pneumonia in babies, but are there other factors? My friend said exposure to smoke can make it worse, but I don’t smoke and we don’t have pets or anything. I’m also worrying about how fragile little lungs are. He had a slight fever too, and I can’t help but think that maybe if I knew what causes pneumonia in babies, I could’ve done something sooner or noticed the signs earlier. Now he's on antibiotics and some kinda wheezing medicine, just hope it helps! I just feel like there’s so much to learn. If anyone has insights or experiences regarding what causes pneumonia in babies, that would be super helpful. I’m hoping to get him back to his playful self soon!

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Doctors' responses

Pneumonia in babies can indeed be a concerning condition, and your worries are completely understandable. In infants, pneumonia can be caused by various pathogens, often viral or bacterial. Among the most common viral causes, the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza viruses are frequent culprits. Bacterial pneumonia, meanwhile, is typically caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae. These microorganisms can take advantage of a baby’s still-developing immune system, particularly if they catch a cold or another viral infection first. Some additional factors can increase a baby’s risk of developing pneumonia. For instance, babies who were born prematurely, have underlying health issues, or those who have been exposed to environmental factors like pollution or passive smoke are at higher risk. Even if you don’t smoke, it’s good to be aware that secondhand smoke from others or pollutants can exacerbate respiratory issues, making a child more prone to infections. You’re doing the right thing by seeking medical care and following prescribed treatments such as antibiotics and bronchodilators, which can help alleviate the symptoms your child is experiencing. Watch out for any worsening symptoms, like persistent high fever, increased breathing difficulties, or lethargy, and ensure you keep in touch with your pediatrician for further guidance. Keeping your baby hydrated and monitoring their recovery process can aid in a faster regain of their energy and health.

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