How do I know if my child is struggling to breathe?

Breathing difficulties in children can be caused by:

• viral infections such as bronchiolitis(external link), croup(external link) or pneumonia(external link) 
• bacterial infections such as tonsillitis(external link), epiglottitis or pneumonia(external link)
• asthma attack(external link)
• allergies(external link) or anaphylaxis(external link)
• passive smoking
• exposure to harmful gases
• blockage of airways by inhaled object, eg, food or any small object
• cystic fibrosis(external link). 

Your child might be struggling to breathe if they have any of the following symptoms:

• shortness of breath or breathing faster than usual
• making extra noises while breathing in or out 
• runny nose, stuffy nose, blocked nose or sneezing
• worsening cough 
• producing phlegm(external link), which can be white, yellow or green in colour.

Depending on the cause of your child's breathing difficulty, they may also have other symptoms such as fever, reduced feeding or appetite, or aches and pains.

Younger children may not tell you that they are struggling to breathe, so it's important you recognise signs that show they are having breathing difficulties. 

There are 3 types of noises that your baby or child can make when they are struggling to breathe: wheeze, stridor or grunting. 

Wheeze

Wheezing is a musical, whistling sound that children make when breathing out. It can also happen when they breathe in. The sound comes from their chest, not from their nose or throat. It can happen if your child has a condition like bronchiolitis(external link), asthma(external link) or viral wheeze(external link).

Stridor

Stridor is a harsh, high-pitched noise your child might make when breathing in. It can happen if your child has a condition like croup(external link).

Grunting 

A grunt, moan or a short sigh is a noise your child might make when breathing out. It can happen if your child has a condition like pneumonia(external link).

If you notice the above signs and symptoms, your child is struggling to breathe. You should take your child to see your doctor. You should also see your doctor if you are worried about your child. If you are unsure what to do, call Healthline on 0800 611 116 or PlunketLine 0800 933 922 to ask for advice. These are free services.

Apps reviewed by Healthify

You may find it useful to look at some First aid and emergency apps, Asthma apps, and Breathing apps.