Babies are highly vulnerable to infections in their first few months of life, and one of the most serious concerns is a lung infection in babies. These infections can interfere with breathing, feeding, and sleep, making early recognition and treatment extremely important.
At Dr Batra’s®, we offer gentle, child-safe homeopathic treatments that support your baby’s natural immunity and aid recovery without side effects. Our experienced doctors create personalised care plans to manage lung infections holistically, ensuring faster relief, improved lung function, and long-term wellness.
In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about what causes lung infection in newborn babies, the signs to look out for, and safe, effective ways to support their recovery.
What Is a Lung Infection in Infants?
A lung infection in babies occurs when viruses, bacteria, or fungi cause inflammation in the lungs, making it hard for the baby to breathe. These are often classified as upper or lower respiratory tract infections.
According to the Indian Academy of Pediatrics, respiratory infections are among the top three causes of infant hospitalisations in India.
Insights into global study
A study in the International Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics found that acute respiratory infections caused 11% of hospital admissions in children under five. Pneumonia was the leading diagnosis (38.5%), with infants most affected. Malnutrition and lack of exclusive breastfeeding raised the risk of severe illness.
What Causes Lung Infection in Newborn Babies?
There are several reasons babies are more prone to respiratory infections:
- Immature immune system unable to fight pathogens effectively
- Exposure to infected adults through close contact
- Seasonal changes and pollution
- Premature birth which affects lung development
- Congenital abnormalities in the airways
- Poor hygiene or lack of breastfeeding, which reduces immunity
Common Types of Respiratory Infection in Babies
- Bronchiolitis:Viral infection common in infants under 1 year; causes wheezing and breathing difficulty
- Pneumonia:Bacterial or viral infection; symptoms include cough, fever, and chest congestion
- RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus): A highly contagious virus causing cold-like symptoms that can worsen in babies
- Influenza (Flu):Causes fever, fatigue, cough, and irritability
Symptoms of Lung Infection in Infants
Watch for these signs if you suspect a lung infection in infants:
- Rapid or laboured breathing
- Persistent cough or wheezing
- Fever
- Poor feeding or refusal to eat
- Bluish lips or fingertips (a sign of low oxygen)
- Unusual tiredness or irritability
Dr Batra’s® pro tip:
“Do not mistake noisy breathing or mild coughing in babies as normal. Babies cannot express discomfort, so subtle signs like fast breathing or poor feeding need immediate attention. Keep their environment clean and avoid exposing them to sick adults.”
When to Seek Medical Help
Contact your doctor immediately if:
- The baby has difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Fever persists beyond 2 days
- Feeding drops significantly
- Baby appears pale, blue, or extremely drowsy
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