Warning Signs Of Bacterial Tracheitis

Wheezing

Wheezing is a symptom that can be attributed to various conditions, like bronchitis, asthma, allergies, and gastroesophageal reflux disease. However, it can also be present if the child is suffering from bacterial tracheitis. The condition is described as being a high-pitched whistling sound and it happens when the child breaths and can occur upon inhalation or exhalation.

Wheezing generally means the lungs are struggling to move air in and out and it may result in the need for medication or oxygen. The child may be given breathing treatments that have medicine in it to help quell the lungs and make it easier to breathe by reducing inflammation, causing a narrowing of the airway. This symptom should be viewed in conjunction with other symptoms to determine the cause of the distress and make the correct diagnosis.

Nasal Flaring

Nasal flaring, when the nostrils widen to try to inhale more oxygen, usually happens when a child is having a hard time breathing. As with many of the warning signs of bacterial tracheitis, nostril flaring is a generic symptom that can be attributed to any condition that inhibits breathing. This symptom usually happens in infants and young children. It should be noted nasal flaring by itself might be benign.

However, when evaluated with other symptoms, like stridor or cyanosis, it can be a serious symptom. Helping the child get more oxygen, whether through a mask or through intubation will help quell nasal flaring. However, medical evaluation of the underlying condition is critical so the child will be able to breathe properly and not struggle so hard that their nostrils are flaring out to try to get more air.