Bronchopneumonia

Important Facts about Bronchopneumonia

About

A type of lung inflammation that can be quite severe.

Bronchopneumonia is the most common clinical manifestation of pneumonia in the pediatric population and is the leading infectious cause of mortality in children under 5 years.

• Diagnosed by a doctor
• Can be acute or severe
• May require tests and x-ray for a diagnosis

Bronchopneumonia is a pneumonic condition which results in inflamed bronchi. This often causes difficulty in breathing due to narrow passageways of the bronchi. Along with reduced oxygen in the lungs, it typically starts with symptoms similar to flu.

Symptoms

• A physician will study symptoms and may require lab tests to confirm the diagnosis. The following are seen:
• Difficulty in breathing
• Fever
• Headache and body ache
• Pain in the chest area
• Rapid heartbeat
• Cough

Treatment

Self-care: You can take OTC medicines for slight fever and body ache.

Medication: Based on the type of infection, you may be prescribed antibiotics or antiviral medicines. In severe cases, if the oxygen levels dip dangerously low, you may require oxygen therapy. Severe cases of bronchopneumonia may result in rapid heartbeat, abnormal blood pressure, dizziness, confusion and other symptoms requiring hospital care.
Specialists: For other concerns, consult a physician or chest specialist. You can join us at mfine for a customized treatment plan for various health ailments.