|  | Family Health | Toddlers Health

Breathing Issues in Toddlers

Numerous conditions can make it difficult for toddlers to breathe. Some may be minor and controllable, while others may be cause for major concern. Either way, any kind of breathing problem in young children should be managed with caution and followed up with the appropriate treatment. It is important to watch out for symptoms and immediately aim to eliminate the ailment.

  1. Common Breathing Conditions

    • Some common respiratory issues seen in toddlers include asthma, allergies, pneumonia and whooping cough. With asthma and allergies, irritants in the environment may cause the air passageways to swell, making breathing difficult. Pneumonia is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection that results in flu-like symptoms, frequently with respiratory distress. Whooping cough, also known as Pertussis, is an extreme respiratory infection that causes persistent coughing. It can be contagious and fatal to children.

    Tell-Tale Signs

    • Signs that a child may be in distress could include wheezing, a rapid increase in deep breaths, bluish color of the lips, paleness in the face and struggling through coughing. Being able to see the ribs more distinctly as the child attempts to inhale for a breath and the over-expansion of the nostrils are also signs that the child is trying harder to breathe.

    Preventive Measures

    • There are methods that parents can use to try to ease or completely prevent breathing issues from occurring. In fact, the cause of respiratory distress could be coming from inside the home. Make sure the home is clean and free of smoke, dust and mold. Parents should also consider whether the child may be allergic to household pets.

    Solutions

    • Once it has been recognized that the child may be having difficulty breathing, the appropriate remedy should be sought immediately. Consult a doctor for treatment, or if the child is in severe distress call 911.

Toddlers Health - Related Articles