Toddler's Pneumonia Symptoms
Pneumonia in toddlers can bring about much apprehension in parents. A generally healthy toddler will recover from pneumonia without complications and minimal medical intervention. The illness can cause much discomfort and may last up to three weeks, or more, depending on the organism causing it, states DrGreene.com.
Pneumonia in toddlers can bring about much apprehension in parents. A generally healthy toddler will recover from pneumonia without complications and minimal medical intervention. The illness can cause much discomfort and may last up to three weeks, or more, depending on the organism causing it, states DrGreene.com. Treatment can make the toddler more comfortable until the illness subsides.
Cold-Like Symptoms
Pneumonia may begin with several days of cold symptoms, including runny nose, cough and congestion. These may be mild to moderate in severity. Over time, the cough may deepen, leading to more discomfort and other symptoms, states DrGreene.com.
Breathing Problems
Coughing can contribute to breathing problems. A toddler may experience respiratory distress seen by flaring of the nostrils or the skin may tighten over the ribs and lungs with each breath. Wheezing or asthma attacks can develop as the illness progresses. The University of Michigan suggests the breathing may be painful.
Fever Symptoms
Bacterial pneumonia can start suddenly with a high fever, states DrGreene.com. A high fever can cause a toddler to shake (chills), become more irritable, develop clammy skin or perspire excessively. The fever of the toddler may reach 101.5 degrees F or more, states BabyCenter.
Other Symptoms
Symptoms of pneumonia may vary from person-to-person and depend on the type of infection. Some toddlers may have a headache, muscle pain, vomiting or diarrhea in addition to the other common symptoms of the illness, states BabyCenter. Your toddler may appear weak and ill. She may not feel like eating due to the illness or any of the stomach problems she may be experiencing. BabyCenter suggests some toddlers may develop bluish lips or nails, rapid pulse or rapid breathing.