BREATHING PROBLEMS( CHILDREN) 113
Does your child have any of the following?
Noisy breathing
Barking cough
Shortness of breath
None of the above
Does your child have a fever – a temperature of 100.4 ° F( 38 ° C) or above?
Does your child suffer from repeated episodes of any of the following?
ACTION
CALL YOUR DOCTOR NOW These symptoms may be due to croup( inflammation of the windpipe).
• Sit with your child in a steamy bathroom to relieve breathing difficulties.
• Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids.
• Ensure that your child sits quietly and avoids exertion.
Fever
No fever
ACTION
CALL YOUR DOCTOR NOW Your child may have a lung infection, such as pneumonia. Another possible cause is bronchiolitis( inflamed small airways in the lungs), particularly in young children.
• Give your child liquid acetaminophen to reduce fever.
• Offer frequent drinks.
• Increase the humidity in your child’ s room by putting a bowl of water near a radiator.
Wheezing
Coughing at night
Coughing after exercise
Coughing after going out in the cold
None of the above
ACTION
SEE YOUR DOCTOR WITHIN 24 HOURS Your child may have developed asthma.
• Keep your child rested and warm.
• Minimize contact with any possible triggers, such as dust, pollen, or animal fur.
• Avoid exposing your child to smoke.
• Avoid using perfume and air fresheners.
ACTION
SEE YOUR DOCTOR WITHIN 24 HOURS if you cannot identify a possible cause for the breathing problems from this chart.