Respiratory Illnesses

While antibiotics can effectively treat bacterial infections, preventing respiratory illnesses is the best way to protect your child’s health.

As a parent, staying alert to any changes in your child’s health is key, so you can reach out to your pediatrician promptly.

The sinuses are air-filled cavities near the nose and eyes that help filter the air we breathe. Sinusitis occurs when these cavities become inflamed or infected due to bacteria or injury.

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and are usually treated with decongestants and antibiotics.

• Nasal congestion
• Headache
• Cough producing phlegm
• Fever
• Reduced sense of smell
• Facial pain or pressure
• Post-nasal drip (mucus dripping down throat)

Sinusitis often develops following a cold or upper respiratory infection that causes sinus swelling. This swelling blocks sinus drainage and allows bacteria to multiply.

Common bacteria include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis.

Other factors that can block nasal flow include:

• Nasal structural issues
• Dental infections
• Nasal injuries
• Foreign objects in the nose
• Cleft palate

• Nasal saline rinses to clear mucus and bacteria
• Antibiotics for severe symptoms like fever or eye swelling
• Pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen for headaches and sore throat
• Decongestants to thin mucus and ease drainage
• Humidifiers to soothe irritated nasal tissues
• Adenoidectomy for persistent sinusitis not responding to other treatments

The bronchi are the large airways that carry air from the windpipe into the lungs. When their lining becomes inflamed, usually due to a viral infection, it’s called bronchitis.

• Sore throat
• Fever and chills
• Muscle aches
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Chest congestion

Bronchitis in children is mostly caused by viruses spread through close contact with sick individuals. Sharing food or touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face can transmit the infection.

Exposure to tobacco smoke raises the risk of severe or chronic bronchitis.

Since bronchitis is usually viral, antibiotics are not effective. Encouraging rest and hydration helps most children recover.

Your pediatrician may suggest over-the-counter cough remedies and close monitoring. In severe cases, oxygen therapy and IV fluids may be required.

Pneumonia is an infection causing the lungs’ tiny air sacs to fill with fluid or pus, making breathing painful and difficult. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi.

Symptoms can vary based on age and cause. Bacterial pneumonia symptoms include:

• Cough with mucus
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Fever and chills

Viral pneumonia shares similar symptoms but usually progresses more slowly and may include headaches and breathing difficulties.

Pneumonia spreads through close contact with infected individuals. Common causes include:

• Streptococcus pneumoniae
• Mycoplasma pneumoniae
• Staphylococcus aureus
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
• Influenza virus
• Adenovirus

Bacterial pneumonia requires prescribed antibiotics. Viral pneumonia often resolves on its own with supportive care.

At-home care tips include:

• Plenty of rest
• Staying hydrated
• Using humidifiers
• Over-the-counter pain and fever reducers
• Cough syrups if recommended

From typical infections to allergies and chronic conditions, Sammy Kim, MD provides trusted, caring pediatric respiratory care.

We offer same-day appointments at our Encino, CA clinic. To schedule, please call (818) 789-0941 or contact us online.