Children are more vulnerable to respiratory illnesses due to their developing immune systems and smaller airways. Respiratory disorders can range from mild infections to chronic lung conditions, and early diagnosis is key to proper treatment.
🩺 Common Respiratory Disorders in Children:
1. Asthma
- Chronic inflammation of the airways
- Symptoms: coughing, wheezing, breathlessness
- Often triggered by allergens, exercise, or infections
2. Bronchiolitis
- Viral infection (commonly caused by RSV) affecting small airways
- Common in infants under 2 years
- Symptoms: rapid breathing, cough, wheezing
3. Pneumonia
- Infection in the lungs caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi
- Symptoms: fever, cough, difficulty breathing, chest pain
4. Allergic Rhinitis
- Immune response to allergens like dust or pollen
- Symptoms: sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes
5. Chronic Cough or Recurrent Wheezing
- Could be linked to undiagnosed asthma, post-viral airway inflammation, or GERD
6. Cystic Fibrosis (Rare)
- A genetic disorder causing thick mucus in lungs and digestive tract
- Needs specialized long-term care
🧪 Diagnosis Methods:
- Clinical examination
- Chest X-rays
- Pulmonary function tests (e.g., Impulse Oscillometry – child-friendly)
- Allergy tests and blood work
- Oxygen saturation monitoring
💊 Treatment & Management:
- Medications: bronchodilators, corticosteroids, antibiotics (if infection)
- Nebulization for easier medication delivery
- Avoidance of triggers like smoke, dust, cold air
- Vaccination (e.g., flu and pneumonia vaccines)
- Parental education to recognize early warning signs
🧑⚕️ Doctor’s Note:
“Timely care and proper diagnosis can prevent complications in children’s respiratory health. If your child frequently coughs, wheezes, or struggles to breathe—consult a specialist early.”
— Dr. Suhas Kulkarni, Pediatric Pulmonologist, [Meera Nursing Home]