Lower respiratory tract infections usually exhibit mild symptoms similar to that of a common cold like running nose, sore throat, dry cough, low-grade fever, and headache. It can lead to severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, severe cough, wheezing, chest tightness, and bluish skin discoloration due to lack of oxygen. Pulse oximetry, chest X-ray, and blood and sputum test to look for microbes are the tests done to diagnose lower respiratory tract infections. Lifestyle modifications include increased intake of fluids, adequate rest, using a humidifier, avoiding smoking, and taming medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, Acetaminophen, bronchodilator inhaler, and antibiotics if needed, helps treat lower respiratory tract infections. In addition, intravenous fluids, oxygen supply, and ventilator support may be required in some cases.
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Are children with VSD more prone to infections?
Query: Hi doctor, I have a 6 week old child with a VSD. He has had nasal congestion for over a week and developed wet cough 3 to 4 days ago. Since then, it has alternated between being wet and dry. His nasal mucus has continued to be present. He grunts or yells sometimes when he coughs and coughs 3 or 4 ti... Read Full »
Answer: Hello, Welcome to icliniq.com. I can understand your concerns. Children who have ventricular septal defect (VSD) are more prone to infections. If the size of VSD is large, then a small infection like cough for few days can also result in lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI). Since your child g... Read Full »
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