It is not always easy to distinguish what is severe and what is not in a small child's health. The sound of mucus rattling inside your child's chest may seem like an alarming symptom, but it is actually quite normal and often nothing to worry about. On the other hand, some signs of labored breathing should prompt you to act quickly. Knowing the signs of breathing trouble is vital to keeping a small problem from turning deadly.
Instructions
1. Look at your child's lips and fingernails. A blue or purple tint indicates that the child is not getting enough oxygen. If you notice this color change, take your child to the emergency room immediately.
2. Notice the way your child is breathing. Shallow, rapid breathing indicates not enough air is getting through their airway. Call your doctor right away if you notice this. This could be a sign of pneumonia or bronchitis.
3. Listen to your toddler's breathing. If she makes a grunting noise with each breath, she may be having trouble breathing. It is important to call your doctor right away about this issue.
4. Listen as your child inhales. A high-pitched noise may accompany an inhale when the upper airway is too swollen to take in the appropriate amount of oxygen. This is a sign of severe croup. You must call your pediatrician right away. If you are unable to get in contact with your doctor, take your child to the nearest emergency room.
5. Look at your toddler's ribcage. Breathing problems can cause the rib cage to suck in as your child breathes. This is because breathing has become so difficult, extra muscle is needed to help with the process. This could be a sign of pneumonia or croup, and you should call your family doctor right away and tell them the symptoms.
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