This article has been professionally reviewed by pediatricians from the Neonatal Department, Vinmec Hai Phong International General Hospital.
Respiratory infections are common in young children, particularly those under five years old. These infections can progress to severe pneumonia, especially when chest retractions occur. This is a serious warning sign of respiratory distress and requires immediate medical intervention.
1. Signs of Chest Retractions in Children
Under normal conditions, when a child inhales, air enters the lungs, causing the chest to expand. Chest retractions occur when the lower part of the chest (where the abdomen meets the thorax) pulls inward during inhalation. This indicates that the child is experiencing difficulty breathing. Chest retractions are more easily observed when the child is in a calm state. If parents suspect chest retractions, they should lay the child still, lift their shirt and carefully observe the entire chest for a few minutes.
In some cases, a child may exhibit intercostal retractions or supraclavicular retractions. However, these are not classified as chest retractions.
For infants under two months of age, the chest wall is still immature, so slight retractions may be normal. However, deep retractions accompanied by abnormal breathing patterns suggest pneumonia or congenital pectus excavatum.
2. What to Do When a Child with Cough or Pneumonia Shows Signs of Chest Retractions
Chest retractions are a warning sign of severe pneumonia in children. Immediate hospital care is necessary, particularly if the child exhibits any of the following danger signs:
- For infants under two months old:Chest retractions accompanied by refusal to feed or reduced feeding; Lethargy or difficulty waking up; Fever with seizures; Wheezing or noisy breathing
- For children aged 2 months to 5 years: Loss of appetite; Lethargy or difficulty waking up; Stridor (high-pitched wheezing sound)
If a child exhibits chest retractions, rapid breathing, stridor or wheezing, they should be taken to a hospital immediately. Home care or self-medication without a doctor’s guidance is not recommended, as this condition can lead to severe health complications, including life-threatening outcomes. Currently, pneumonia is a leading cause of mortality among children in Vietnam, with approximately 4,000 deaths annually. Vietnam ranks among the top 15 countries with the highest number of pneumonia cases in children worldwide.
For children with prolonged cough or pneumonia, parents should closely monitor their condition and not underestimate any warning signs to prevent severe consequences.
As a leading pediatric healthcare provider in the Vinmec Health System, the Pediatric Department ensures the highest level of satisfaction for patients and is highly regarded by medical experts. Vinmec offers:
- A team of highly qualified pediatric specialists: The department consists of experienced professors, associate professors, doctors, and master's degree holders with expertise in pediatrics. Many have worked at top hospitals such as Bach Mai Hospital and 108 Military Hospital. All doctors undergo rigorous, professional training, demonstrating both expertise and dedication while understanding children's psychology. In addition to Vietnamese pediatricians, Vinmec collaborates with international experts from Japan, Singapore, Australia, and the U.S., who apply the latest and most effective treatment protocols.
- Comprehensive pediatric services: Vinmec provides a full range of medical services, including neonatal care, pediatric healthcare, and vaccinations, following international standards. This ensures optimal care from infancy through adolescence.
- Advanced medical techniques: Vinmec has successfully implemented specialized techniques in pediatric care, including neurosurgery, skull base surgery and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for cancer treatment.
- Professional and child-friendly care: Understanding children's psychology is a key focus at Vinmec. The hospital provides engaging play areas to create a comfortable environment for young patients, fostering cooperation during treatment and enhancing the effectiveness of medical care.
To arrange an appointment, please call HOTLINE or make your reservation directly HERE. You may also download the MyVinmec app to schedule appointments faster and manage your reservations more conveniently.
