Signs of breathing problems in children

Breathing problems in children can have a number of different causes. This page tells you what signs to look out for in your child and what they might mean.

Infections of your child’s nose, sinuses, throat, airways, or lungs are called respiratory tract infections. On this page, find out how to spot the signs of a respiratory tract infection in your child.

Call 999 now if your child has any of the breathing-related symptoms on this page.

Read about what you should expect when you see a doctor about your child’s breathing, including when you should go, how to prepare and what the doctor will do.

A child has natural defences against infection. Most infections will clear up by themselves, but there are things you can do to take care of them and keep them more comfortable.

Knowing the right information can make you feel more confident in managing your child’s lung condition. Find out questions you could ask your child’s doctor, useful definitions, tips for managing your child’s condition and more.

Coping with a child’s diagnosis of a lung condition can be a lonely and overwhelming experience. But support is available, and you can find out more on this page.