Q: My child has blue feet and a persistent cough after Mycoplasma, RSV, and COVID infections. Do they need an X-ray?
- Myeongchan Kim, MD
- 11 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD
Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD
This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Question:
Hello, my child was recently hospitalized for Mycoplasma pneumonia. After being discharged, they were prescribed a steroid twice a day, which was later reduced to once a day during an outpatient follow-up. While taking the medication, my child developed a new fever, so we visited a local pediatrician. A respiratory test revealed that my child had caught both RSV and COVID-19.
They have been taking steroids and antibiotics, but they are still coughing a lot, have a lot of phlegm, and have a persistent low-grade fever. Occasionally, even without a fever, my child's feet turn blue. I am wondering if we should get a chest X-ray? Will a blood test also be necessary?
Answer:
Hello. You must be very worried since your child is experiencing RSV and COVID-19 right after being hospitalized and treated for Mycoplasma pneumonia.
Based on the symptoms you shared, here is an assessment of your child's current situation:
• Sequential respiratory infections (Mycoplasma → RSV + COVID-19)
• Currently undergoing steroid and antibiotic treatment
• Persistent cough, phlegm, and low-grade fever
• Intermittent cyanosis (blue discoloration) of the feet
When to visit the emergency room or hospital immediately:
• If the blue discoloration of the feet occurs frequently or the lips also turn blue.
• If you observe chest retractions (the skin between the ribs sucks in deeply when breathing).
• If your child is panting heavily and cannot speak more than a few words at a time.
Need for a Chest X-ray:
Given the consecutive respiratory infections and prolonged symptoms, a chest X-ray is highly recommended and should be considered to check for:
• Secondary bacterial pneumonia
• Atelectasis (collapsed lung) or pleural effusion (fluid around the lungs)
• The overall response to the current treatment
Need for a Blood Test:
A blood test (such as CRP and CBC) can be very helpful to check your child's current inflammation levels and evaluate the severity of the infection.
Actionable Guidance:
The blue discoloration of the feet can be a clinical sign of low oxygen saturation in the blood. Please make sure to bring your child in for an in-person evaluation as soon as possible and mention this specific symptom to your pediatrician so they can properly assess your child's oxygen levels and lungs. I hope your child recovers quickly.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
