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Trouble Breathing in Children

Trouble breathing means a child is working harder than normal to move air in and out of the lungs. Signs can include fast breathing, ribs pulling in, nostril flaring or difficulty talking, crying or feeding normally.

Asthma, viral infections, pneumonia, croup, bronchiolitis, allergic reactions, choking and other heart or lung problems can all cause breathing difficulty.

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AAP Guide to Trouble Breathing in Children

The AAP guide below explains what to watch for and when breathing trouble needs emergency care.

AAP Symptom CheckerTrouble breathing

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Your child is breathing much faster than usual.
  • You see the ribs pulling in or your child is using extra muscles to breathe.
  • Wheezing, stridor or another new noisy breathing sound develops.
  • Your child cannot eat, drink, talk or sleep normally because of breathing difficulty.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child is struggling for each breath or can barely speak or cry.
  • Your child stops breathing or passes out.
  • Your child’s lips or face turn blue or gray.
  • You think your child has a life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on coughs and breathing

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