Q: My child has pneumonia and is breathing 35 times a minute. Should we go to the ER?

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:

My child was diagnosed with pneumonia this morning at the clinic and received a prescription for antibiotics. Their fever goes down when taking fever reducers, but they seem to be breathing quite rapidly. I counted about 35 breaths per minute. Should we go to the emergency room right now, or is it okay to observe them at home for a while?

Answer:

Rapid breathing in a child diagnosed with pneumonia requires careful observation. Normal respiratory rates vary depending on the child's age, so you can check your child's rate against these general guidelines:

• Under 1 year old: 30–60 breaths per minute

• 1 to 3 years old: 24–40 breaths per minute

• 3 to 5 years old: 22–34 breaths per minute

At this time, please observe your child closely for the following signs:

1. Are the spaces between their ribs sinking in when they breathe (chest retractions)?

2. Are their nostrils flaring out with each breath?

3. Are they making a wheezing sound when breathing?

4. Do their lips or fingernails appear blue (cyanosis)?

When to visit the Emergency Room:

You should seek emergency medical care immediately if your child shows any of the symptoms listed above, appears to be struggling to breathe, or is unable to drink water or milk.

When it is safe to observe:

You can continue to watch them at home if their breathing becomes comfortable after the fever comes down, and if they are eating and playing normally.

While it is common for a child's breathing rate to increase slightly when they have pneumonia, any clear signs of respiratory distress warrant an immediate trip to the emergency room. If you are ever feeling anxious or uncertain about your child's breathing, it is always safest to visit a doctor for a proper in-person evaluation.

For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.

fevercoach.us

Apple App Store

Google Play

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