Children have different breathing patterns compared to adults. Newborns, for one, breathe differently, and this can be a cause for alarm for new parents.
The breathing patterns of newborns are generally different; what would seem irregular may actually be normal. However, it's crucial to know what type of breathing is considered to be irregular. Newborns breathe faster for a few seconds before it normalizes, especially when they’re sleeping. Yet, if this type of breathing carries through the age of six months and beyond, it’s important to have your child checked by their pediatrician immediately.
Moreover, if the child stops breathing for 15 seconds or more and then resumes breathing, it is vital to take the child to the emergency room, even if they seem fine. It’s essential to ensure that there’s no underlying reason for this. Keep in mind that there is also a breath-holding spell that is common for children between six months and six years old, but this requires diagnosis. If you notice irregular breathing in your child for the first time, have a doctor check him or her out.
Look Out for These Changes in Breathing
If your child breathes faster than normal, has a hard time breathing, or his or her chest and abdomen is like a see-saw where one goes up and the other goes down, take your child to the ER right away.
Other signs you should watch out for are bluish hue to the lips or skin, persistent cough or wheezing, and high-pitched squeaky sounds in the upper airway.
Another point that could trigger changes in breathing is if your child has asthma. When your child is diagnosed with asthma, it is important that you work with your doctor about his or her treatment plan. You should also watch out for asthma flare-ups, such as tightness in the chest, wheezing, restless sleep, throat clearing, rapid or irregular breathing, coughing, and unusual fatigue.
Pneumonia: A Common Cause
Unfortunately, pneumonia is a common lung infection that affects many children. Usually, children with this condition are at a higher risk for developing pneumonia. However, it normally starts with cold or flu. For this reason, if your child has either the cold or flu for more than five days and it doesn’t seem to be getting better, you need to consult with your pediatrician.
Conclusion
Changes in your child’s breathing should not be put off. When you notice changes in their breathing patterns and you see your child having difficulty breathing, it’s best to take them to the emergency room. On the other hand, if your child seems fine, yet you notice something a bit off with their breathing, you can take your child to a pediatric urgent care facility instead to have him or her checked.
Indeed, changes in breathing when it comes to your child can cause you to panic. However, knowing what signs to watch out for and the right facilities to take your child to will make things go smoothly. This is why you should always make sure to have regular check-ups with your pediatrician, especially if your child has a respiratory condition or other health conditions that could affect their breathing. In doing so, you will be more informed, and you will save you and your child a trip to the ER.
If you have any concerns regarding your child’s breathing, you can visit a walk-in clinic for children in Brantford. Our licensed pediatric specialists provide top-quality healthcare, ensuring that your children are in the safest of hands and being treated by the best medical specialists possible. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help!
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