Question
My child is 29 days old, and he is having difficulty breathing. Do newborns with pneumonia always need intravenous fluids? Can medication resolve it?
Answer
Infant pneumonia is one of the most common infectious diseases. Babies are more susceptible to pneumonia as they grow younger. Newborn pneumonia typically occurs within the first 1-2 weeks after birth and can happen throughout the year. Typical symptoms include nasal congestion, coughing, fever, lack of energy, choking on milk, not crying, vomiting thin white foam, and shallow breathing. In some cases, there may be blue discoloration around the mouth or on the limbs, while other areas of the skin may appear gray or pale. In severe cases, respiratory arrest may occur. For the treatment of newborn pneumonia, hospitalization is generally required, and antibiotics and other medications are administered through intravenous fluids. This is because newborns’ immune systems are not fully developed, making them more susceptible to infections and requiring aggressive treatment. In addition to medication, doctors may also take other supportive measures to help the baby recover. It is not recommended to treat newborn pneumonia at home. If your child has symptoms of difficulty breathing, you should seek medical attention immediately and follow the doctor’s advice for treatment.