Pediatric Breathing Treatment

Breathing problems in children can be alarming for parents and caregivers. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options is crucial for ensuring your child’s health and well-being.

After Hours Kids, located in Austin, TX, is dedicated to offering comprehensive care for children experiencing respiratory issues. If your child is showing signs of breathing difficulties, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

What Are the Symptoms of Breathing Problems in Children?

Identifying the symptoms of breathing problems in children is the first step toward effective treatment. Common symptoms include:

Shortness of breath: Your child may struggle to breathe or appear to be working hard to get air.
Wheezing: A high-pitched whistling sound when breathing, especially on exhalation.
Persistent coughing: A cough that doesn’t go away, especially if it’s worse at night or after physical activity.
Rapid breathing: An unusually fast breathing rate, even when your child is at rest.
Chest retractions: Visible sinking of the chest between and under the ribs during breathing.
Nasal flaring: Widening of the nostrils when breathing in.
Grunting: Heard when your child breathes out.
Stridor: High-pitched noise when breathing in that can develop when a child has croup.

What Are the Common Causes of Breathing Problems in Children?

Breathing problems in children can stem from a variety of causes. Some of the most common include:

Asthma: A chronic condition that inflames and narrows the airways, leading to wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing.
Respiratory infections: Conditions like bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and the common cold can cause breathing difficulties.
Allergies: Allergic reactions to pollen, dust, pet dander, or food can lead to respiratory symptoms.

What Types of Breathing Treatments Are Recommended for Children?

The type of breathing treatment recommended will depend on the underlying cause and severity of your child’s symptoms. Common treatments include:

Nebulizer treatments: These devices use an air compressor to turn liquid medicine into a fine mist that your child can inhale, providing relief from symptoms of asthma or other respiratory conditions. Nebulizer treatments are especially useful for young children who may have difficulty using other inhalation devices. They just need to put on the mask or mouthpiece and breathe.
Metered Dose Inhalers (MDIs): A metered dose inhaler is a handheld device that delivers medication directly to the lungs. They are often used in conjunction with a spacer to ensure the medication is inhaled properly.

Can I Purchase a Nebulizer from After Hours Kids?

Yes, you can purchase a nebulizer from After Hours Kids. We offer high-quality nebulizers that are easy to use and specifically designed for children. Our team will provide you with the necessary instructions and support to ensure that you can effectively administer the treatment at home.

How to Use a Nebulizer

Using a nebulizer can be straightforward, especially with the right guidance:

Preparation: Wash your hands thoroughly and assemble the nebulizer according to the instructions. Make sure all the medicine and parts are ready.
Medication: Pour the prescribed liquid medicine into the nebulizer cup.
Positioning: Have your child sit in a comfortable, upright position. Place the face mask over their nose and mouth, ensuring a snug fit.
Operation: Turn on the nebulizer. Encourage your child to breathe normally through the face mask. The air compressor will convert the medication into a fine mist for easy inhalation.
Completion: The nebulizer treatment typically takes about 10-15 minutes. Once finished, turn off the nebulizer and clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow all parts to air dry completely.

How Can I Help My Child Feel More Comfortable Using a Nebulizer?

Here are some tips to help make nebulizer treatment time go smoothly for your child:

Establish a Routine: Incorporate the nebulizer treatment into your daily schedule at the same time each day. This consistency helps your child know when to expect it.
Make It Fun: Give treatment time a special name, such as “breathe better time.” Engage your child with stories, songs, or special toys that are only available during nebulizer time.
Watch a Show Together: Allow your child to watch a favorite TV show or movie while using the nebulizer.
Decorate the Machine: Let your child personalize the nebulizer machine with stickers. This can make the device seem less intimidating and more engaging.
Use a Highchair: If your child is young, try having them sit in a highchair during treatment. If they prefer, sitting on your lap is also an option.
Treat During Sleep: For particularly squirmy infants, using the nebulizer while they are sleeping can be effective.
Creative Mask Ideas: If your child is afraid of the mask, present it as a “pilot mask” or “space mask.” You can show a movie about pilots or astronauts and use related language like “start your engines” before starting the nebulizer. You can also buy masks shaped like animals or dragons.
Involve Your Child: If they are old enough, let your child help by holding the tubing, putting on the mask, and turning on the machine. This involvement can make them feel more in control and less scared.
Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child for their cooperation and bravery. Consider giving a small reward, such as a sticker or a simple toy, to reinforce positive behavior.
Use Distraction Techniques: Engage your child with a favorite toy or game that they can play with only during nebulizer time.
Stay Calm and Positive: Your child can pick up on your emotions. Staying calm and positive during treatment can help them feel more at ease.
Create a Relaxing Environment: Dim the lights, play soothing music, or use a soft, calm voice to create a relaxing atmosphere during treatment.

These tips can help transform nebulizer treatment into a less stressful and more positive experience for both you and your child.

Schedule an Appointment Today

At After Hours Kids, we are committed to providing exceptional pediatric care, including effective breathing treatments for children. If your child is experiencing breathing problems, whether due to an asthma attack, lung infection, or other causes, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.

To schedule an appointment, please call 512-499-2452 (phone lines open at 6 pm). Let us help your child breathe easier and feel better!