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7 COMMON RESPIRATORY DISEASES IN YOUNG CHILDREN PARENTS SHOULD NOT TAKE LIGHTLY
Respiratory diseases can occur in children year-round, especially in infants and children under 5 years of age whose immune systems are still immature. According to statistics, on average, a young child may contract upper respiratory tract infections approximately 6–8 times per year.
Many parents often assume that symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, runny nose, or nasal congestion are merely common illnesses and manage them at home. However, if not monitored and examined in a timely manner, some respiratory conditions can progress severely, causing dangerous complications for the child.
Below are the common respiratory diseases in children:
1. Seasonal Influenza
Influenza can cause high fever, body aches, fatigue, coughing, and a prolonged runny nose in children. In some cases, the disease can lead to pneumonia or secondary infections if treatment is delayed. Annual influenza vaccination is an effective measure to help prevent the disease in children.
2. Common Cold
The common cold typically manifests with symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat, cough, sneezing, or mild body aches. Although these symptoms are generally milder than those associated with influenza, parents should monitor their children closely, ensure they receive adequate rest, and maintain proper hydration. It is particularly important to note that children under the age of two should not be given over-the-counter medications without professional medical guidance.
3. Asthma
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that can cause persistent coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath. If not well-controlled, the disease carries the risk of leading to bronchitis or pneumonia. Children showing signs of frequent coughing during physical activity or recurrent symptoms should be examined by a pediatric specialist early.
4. Sinusitis
Inflammation of the sinus mucosa in children can cause nasal congestion, prolonged runny nose, headaches, facial pain, or post-nasal drip. If symptoms persist or recur frequently, the child should be examined to prevent complications.
5. Bronchitis
Bronchitis often occurs following a cold or the flu, primarily caused by viruses. Children may experience a persistent cough for several weeks, accompanied by fever, chest tightness, wheezing, or fatigue. Children with a history of asthma or allergies are generally at a higher risk.
6. Laryngitis
Laryngitis often causes hoarseness, a barking cough, or stridor in children due to inflammation and swelling of the airway. The majority of cases can be improved with rest, adequate hydration, and appropriate treatment as directed by a physician.
7. Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a dangerous respiratory condition in young children. Signs may include high fever, rapid breathing, cough, fatigue, or chest pain when breathing. In children, symptoms are sometimes atypical and can easily be overlooked if not monitored closely.
When visiting the American International Hospital (AIH), children will undergo a comprehensive health assessment by a team of pediatric specialists to evaluate their respiratory condition and related issues. This process aims to detect any abnormalities early, thereby allowing for the development of a personalized treatment plan for each child. In necessary cases, children will receive interdisciplinary consultations to ensure that the care and treatment process achieves optimal effectiveness.
In particular, pediatricians at AIH always prioritize treatment in strict accordance with medical guideline, saying no to the unnecessary use of antibiotics, thereby helping to limit the risk of antibiotic resistance and protecting the long-term health of children.
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