Respiratory illnesses are quite common in kids, and they are not usually that worrisome. A child may get a cold that lasts for a week and fades away without any intervention. Even most cases of influenza don't require a doctor's care. However, there are some respiratory illnesses that are more serious and do warrant a visit to the pediatrician. If you think your child may have one of these illnesses, call the doctor ASAP.

Whooping Cough

"Whooping cough" is the conventional name for an illness more formally known as pertussis. It's a bacterial infection caused by the species Bordetella pertussis, which is related to the bacterium that causes kennel cough in dogs. Pertussis mostly affects small children and infants, but it can be carried and spread by adults, many of whom have no idea that they are infected.

The characteristic symptom of whooping cough is a high-pitched cough that sounds like a "whoop." Other symptoms include vomiting, runny nose, loss of appetite, and a low-grade fever. Pertussis can cause oxygen deprivation and even death, so it is vital than any child with the disease see a pediatrician. Treatment involves antibiotics along with supportive therapies such as IV fluids and pain relievers.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs. It usually results from another respiratory illness that goes untreated and spreads into the lungs. Pneumonia can be viral or bacterial in nature, but both types do require a doctor's care, especially when they occur in young children.

Signs your child may have pneumonia include:

• Violent and persistent coughing
• Chills and a fever
• Chest pain
• Shallow, rapid breathing
• Coughing up blood
• Exhaustion and tiredness

Bacterial pneumonia will be treated with antibiotics, and viral pneumonia is generally treated with supportive therapies and antiviral medications. Some children do require hospitalization for pneumonia.

Strep Throat

Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus bacteria. The primary symptom is a very sore throat. Kids with this condition will often refuse to eat and even drink because their throat is so sore. If left untreated, strep throat can lead to problems with the heart, kidneys, and joints. Luckily, it is easy to treat with antibiotics, and most kids can recover at home once their pediatrician has prescribed antibiotics and a pain reliever.

While the common cold may not require a doctor's care, these other respiratory illnesses do. Call your child's pediatrician if you suspect they may have pneumonia, whooping cough, or strep throat. Contact a medical facility like Better Foot Care LLC to learn more.