What are respiratory conditions?
Respiratory conditions affect the respiratory system which includes the nose, throat, windpipe and lungs causing breathing problems, retention of secretions, reduced exercise tolerance and increased risk of infection.
Respiratory conditions that affect toddlers may be lifelong conditions such as cystic fibrosis and asthma or result from infection by some virus or bacteria such as bronchiolitis.
Toddlers are more prone to getting respiratory infections as their lungs and airways are smaller and more vulnerable however, treatment advances mean they are normally treatable and usually not life threatening.
Above: Improving exercise tolerance and lung function through play activites
Types of respiratory conditions
Respiratory conditions in toddlers may include:
- Croup (inflammation of the vocal cords)
- Whooping cough
- Asthma
- Bronchiolitis
- Cystic fibrosis
What are the symptoms of respiratory conditions?
Symptoms and severity may vary according to the condition affecting your child but may include:
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Altered breathing pattern
- Wheezing
- Stridor (high pitched squeaking noise made when the baby breaths )
Above: Engaging children in play to promote exercise tolerance and improve respiratory function
Physiotherapy for respiratory conditions
At Physio.co.uk our specialist physiotherapists provide comprehensive assessment and treatment for chronic and acute respiratory problems affecting toddlers.
Physiotherapy treatment at Physio.co.uk will depend on your toddlers specific respiratory condition affecting but may include:
- Breathing exercise to maximise lung function and clear secretions
- Chest physiotherapy such as vibrations or percussion to remove secretions and reduce the risk of infection
- Positioning to relieve discomfort and help maintain a clear chest
- Advice regarding inhaler techniques
- Exercises using toys and games to improve exercise tolerance and to help keep the lungs clear
- Teaching and advising parents/carers techniques to help in the long term
Our paediatric physiotherapists at Physio.co.uk can provide treatment at our clinic, at your child's nursery/school or at your home for your convenience.
For more information about physiotherapy for respiratory conditions, or to book an appointment please call 0330 088 7800, or book online today!