During a baby’s first few weeks of life, they are particularly vulnerable to infections due to their immature immune system. One of the most commonly treated infections in newborns is pneumonia, which requires urgent treatment if they are diagnosed with it. Pneumonia will hinder a newborn’s ability to breathe and/or adequately supply oxygen to the body. However, if diagnosed early and treated appropriately, most babies will recover. In this article, we will discuss the same, backed by the best neonatal care hospital in Mohali
What Is Pneumonia in Newborns?
Pneumonia refers to an infectious disease that affects the lungs, causing inflammation in the air sacs of the lungs. If a newborn contracts pneumonia, it will prohibit normal gas exchange in the lungs. A newborn can develop pneumonia before birth, at the time of delivery, or shortly thereafter. Because a newborn does not have the capacity to communicate illness, enhanced awareness of any potential symptoms will aid in early diagnosis by a healthcare professional.
Causes of Pneumonia in Newborns
Several different risk factors may predispose a newborn to the development of pneumonia:
- Bacterial Infections
Bacterial pathogens are the most significant cause of early-onset pneumonia in a newborn. Bacterial infection may occur in utero or during the delivery process as the baby passes through the birth canal.
- Viral Infections
According to the child specialist hospital in Mohali,several respiratory viruses can cause pneumonia in newborns, particularly those with decreased immunity.
- Premature Birth
Newborns who are born prematurely generally have immature lungs and/or immune systems, which increases their likelihood of developing pneumonia.
Signs Of Pneumonia In Infants
According to the best neonatal care hospital in Mohali, pneumonia is not always immediately recognizable, and symptoms can differ from one infant’s case to another. The common signs to watch for include
- Rapid Breathing
- Difficulty Breathing
- Grunting Noise When Breathing
- Chest Retracting During Breathing
- Not Eating Well
- Being Very Tired
- Either Being Hot Or Cold
- Blue Skin (Cyanosis) Due To Low Oxygen Levels
If an infant is having any issues breathing, then it is considered a Medical Emergency.
What Tests Help Diagnose Neonatal Pneumonia?
To confirm that an infant has pneumonia, your doctor may use any or all of the below-listed methods of diagnosis
- Physical Exam
- Blood Test
- Chest Xray
- Monitoring Oxygen Levels
- Culturing The Infection-Causing Germ From The Infant
An early diagnosis will help your infant start their treatment before serious complications develop.
How Is Neonatal Pneumonia Treated?
The treatment for pneumonia in infants will depend on what is causing the pneumonia as well as how severe the infection is.
- Antibiotics
For bacterial pneumonia, the infant will usually start on antibiotics as soon as possible, whether or not the laboratory tests are back.
- Oxygen Support
Many infants who have trouble breathing will need to receive supplemental oxygen so that they can maintain healthy oxygen levels.
- Hospitalized To Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
Many infants will require hospitalization in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU) because they require close monitoring and more advanced respiratory support than can be provided at home or in an outpatient hospital.
- Feeding And Fluid Management
Infants with pneumonia may need IV fluids and/or special feeding support until they recover.
Sohana Hospital Mohali is home to the World’s most advanced technology and Tricity’s most advanced Level 3 NICU, with the most experienced best pediatrician for newborn pneumonia Chandigarh. Book your appointment today!