Question
I have a question about my son. He has a cough sounds mucousy (gross yes). Friday he had his vaccines (he is 4) and he started running a fever, which I assumed was a result. Well it's obviously not. He has had a hacking cough and fever since then. My question is: How do you determine if it is pneumonia or just bronchitis? Anything you can tell me would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!!!!!!!
StacyAnn.....live life
Answer
Kids often have these types of reactions to immunizations, however.....
About Fevers.....
Under 101, I usually let nature take it's course, it's actually caused by the body fighting the illness. Over 101, use pediatric Motrin and Tylenol in alternating doses. Tylenol, then 4 hours later the Motrin. repeat as needed for fever over 101. Temps over 104 can cause serious problems and it may be time for a return engagement with the DR.
You can also help reduce temp by putting the child in a tepid bath and cooling them off that way in addition to the medicine.
About cough's
A loose cough that produces and brings up the mucus shouldn't be messed with too much. Cough meeds labeled expectorant help this process along.
A harsh wheezing, dry cough that does nothing but tire the person out is generally related to bronchitis. It is usually worse at night, keeping the person awake. Prop them up on pillows to sleep. It will help some. That's when you need decongestant and suppresent type cough meds.
The only sure fire way to tell about pneumonia is with a chest x-ray. Or someone very experienced using a stethoscope can usually rule it out.
Let me know if you need more info, but if things don't improve in a day or two, or they get worse, please call the Dr.
Keeping you safe, healthy and on the road.
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Answer
Thanks!!
The big one is getting over it and of course now the baby has it. Yippee, sick kids left and right. Jayson, my oldest, still has the loose cough. So keep them in your thoughts.
Thanks again!
StacyAnn.....live life
Answer
To help them cough up loose stuff...
Place the child across your legs with their head and upper chest a little lower than the the rest of the body. Have them on their side.
Cup your hands as if doing the dog paddle and gently pat them up and down the rib cage. If you are doing it correctly it should sound like a horses' hooves.
Turn them over and do the other side. Do it for 3-5 minutes each side. This helps loosen the phlegm and makes it easier for them to cough up.
Not too hard now, OK?
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