Home or Hospital?
Common Respiratory Illnesses
By Donna Smith
Croup is another viral infection associated with coughing and difficulty breathing. "One can hear a noise called a 'strider,' which is a noise that's noisy breathing when one takes in a deep breath or exhales because the trachea is swollen," says Dr. Abramson. "Humidified air is sometimes helpful, certainly if the child is not oxygenating (breathing) well." Difficulty breathing is among the criteria for being admitted to the hospital for more aggressive treatment.
Influenza, another virus, can cause severe symptoms such as high fever, muscle aches, chills, and can lead to pneumonia, which can be life threatening. Dr. Abramson says it's very important for everyone older than 6 months to get a flu shot. Unlike other viruses, there are some medications that can be given if the flu is detected early. "There are rapid tests for this that can be done at a doctor's office or clinic," he says. "If one has it and it's noted within the first 48 hours, there are some medical treatments, some medicines, that can be given for the flu." The medications are all by prescription only, so a trip to the doctor is a required.
Bronchitis can be caused by a bacteria or virus and affects the lungs. "In younger infants we call it bronchiolitis because it can involve the smaller airway as well," says Dr. Abramson. Symptoms include breathing problems, coughing, shortness or breath, chest tightness and chest pain. Bronchitis can also be a feature of asthma. "If there's wheezing, or what we call reactive airway disease, then the child may benefit from some breathing treatments in the hospital for a while," he says. If there are no complications, bronchitis can, and usually is, treated at home
| Controlling the 'Triggers' of Asthma If your child gets one of these respiratory illnesses, it can trigger asthma, or make the condition worse. Allergies also can trigger this common condition. "If we look at asthma in children, at least 80 percent of children with a as some degree of allergy sensitivity," says Dr. Abramson. Dust mites and mold are the two most common triggers of asthma. "In addition, we know that if infants who are exposed early to these types of allergens are most likely to be sensitized, to dust mites in particular," he says. Dr. Abramson has the following suggestions to keep these triggers in check: - Use a dust mite-proof encasement on the mattress, or wash the bedding in hot water every week or two;
- If you have central air, change the filter regularly;
- Vacuum often, or consider wood floors;
- If you had water damage, check for mold. Substances like calcium carbonate, found at Wal-Mart or allergy control supply companies, can help absorb moisture;
- To kill mold and mildew, use a mixture of five percent bleach and a small amount of detergent;
- Live plants in a child's room can contribute to mold spores;
- Do not smoke.
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