Clinical Manifestations of Pneumonia in Neonates
Pneumonia is a serious infection of the lungs that can cause severe complications in newborns. Most cases of pneumonia in newborns occur in the first month of life. The most common clinical manifestations of pneumonia in neonates include:
Fever: A fever is a common sign of pneumonia in newborns. It is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, and increased irritability.
Coughing: A newborn with pneumonia may have a persistent, wet-sounding cough. This may be accompanied by wheezing, which is a whistling sound made when breathing.
Rapid Breathing: Rapid breathing is a sign of pneumonia in newborns. It can cause the baby to take shallow breaths.
Poor Feeding: Poor feeding is another common sign of pneumonia in neonates. The baby may not be able to feed adequately and may be reluctant to suck or swallow.
Rapid Heart Rate: A rapid heart rate is a sign of pneumonia in newborns. The baby's heart rate may also be irregular.
Low Oxygen Levels: Low oxygen levels in the blood can be a sign of pneumonia in newborns. This can cause the baby to appear pale or blue.
Lethargy: Lethargy, or a lack of energy, is a sign of pneumonia in newborns. The baby may be less active than normal or may appear sleepy.
Pneumonia in newborns can be a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. It is important to seek medical care right away if you suspect that your baby has pneumonia.
