What Do Parents Need to Know About Home Care for babies with CDH?

Brought your baby back home after Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) surgery? Congratulations.

But now we’re sure you have a lot of questions, concerns, and, let’s be honest, some anxiety too.

How do you manage breathing issues? What about feeding? And will your child be able to live a normal life?

These are all valid concerns. And the reality is that CDH care doesn’t stop after surgery.

But with the right knowledge and preparation, you can confidently manage your child’s care at home.

We’ve broken down everything you need to know about Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia care at home.

What is CDH? Why Does It Matter?

Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) happens when a baby is born with a hole in the diaphragm, which is the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen.

This allows organs like the stomach, intestines, and liver to push into the chest, affecting lung growth.

The result? Smaller, weaker lungs that make breathing more difficult.

CDH occurs in 1 in 2,500 births worldwide. It’s not rare, but it’s not widely talked about either.

Survival rates range from 70% to 80%, depending on severity and medical care.

Also, up to 70% of CDH survivors deal with long-term breathing and digestion issues.

It’s a lot to take in. But babies with CDH can live a good life with the right care.

How to Care for a Child With CDH at Home?

Bringing your baby home means taking on new responsibilities.

Here’s what to focus on:

Breathing Support

Lung development in babies with CDH varies. Some need oxygen therapy and oxygen concentrators at home, while others don’t.

What to watch for:

•         Fast breathing (more than 60 breaths per minute)
•         Flaring nostrils
•         Skin turning bluish around lips or fingers

What helps:

•         Keeping your child away from smoke, dust, and pollution
•         Using humidifiers to ease breathing
•         Learning CPR, just in case

In India, air pollution is a major concern. If you live in a polluted area, consider air purifiers and limit outdoor exposure on bad air days.

You can check out our wide range of oxygen machines, portable O2 concentrators, and home oxygen machines on our website. You can also reach out to us: +91 8100 334353 (Available on WhatsApp).

Feeding and Nutrition

CDH affects digestion. Many babies have acid reflux, trouble swallowing, or require a feeding tube.

What works:

•         Small, frequent meals
•         Keeping your baby upright after feeds
•         Consulting a pediatric dietitian for a personalized plan

If your child struggles with oral feeding, don’t stress. Many babies with CDH transition to normal feeding over time.

Preventing Infections

Respiratory infections are one of the biggest risks for babies with CDH. Even a mild cold can escalate quickly.

How to protect your child:

•         Stick to vaccination schedules (flu, pneumonia, and RSV shots are essential)
•         Limit exposure to crowded places
•         Enforce strict hand hygiene for family members

In India, pneumonia remains a leading cause of child mortality, with 14% of under-five deaths linked to it.

Growth & Development

Babies with CDH often have developmental delays due to prolonged hospital stays. But with the right support, they can catch up.

What helps:

•         Physiotherapy to strengthen muscles
•         Speech therapy if feeding or talking is delayed
•         Regular check-ups to monitor growth and lung function

Many parents worry: “Will my child lead a normal life?”

The truth? Many CDH survivors grow up to live healthy, active lives. Some may need extra medical care, but that doesn’t define their future.

Myths vs. Facts About CDH

Myth: CDH is a direct result of the mother’s actions during pregnancy

Fact: False. CDH is a congenital condition with no known prevention. It’s not your fault.

Myth: CDH is completely fixed after surgery.

Fact: Not exactly. Surgery repairs the diaphragm, but lung and digestive issues can persist. Long-term care is important.

Myth: Babies with CDH can’t play or exercise.

Fact: Not true. While some kids may need activity adjustments, most can lead active lives with proper medical guidance.

What Are Some of The Frequently Asked Questions About CDH?

Q. Can my child go to school like other kids?

Yes. Many CDH survivors attend school and lead normal lives. If needed, schools can accommodate breathing or dietary needs.

Q. Will my child always need oxygen concentrator therapy?

Not necessarily. Some babies with CDH outgrow oxygen machines dependency as their lungs develop.

Q. How often do we need follow-ups?

Expect regular check-ups for lung function, growth, and development, especially in the first few years.

Q. Can CDH be detected before birth?

Yes. Ultrasounds and fetal MRI scans can diagnose CDH during pregnancy. Early detection helps plan for specialized care.

Q. Where can I find support in India?

Here are some great resources:

Indian Academy of Pediatrics – Medical guidelines and expert advice

National Health Portal of India – Government-backed health information

CDH Parent Support Group – Connect with other parents navigating CDH

Takeaway

Some days will feel like wins, when your child takes their first steps, breathes easier, eats better.

Other days? They might struggle. That’s okay.

What matters is that you are your child’s biggest advocate.

Stay informed. Ask questions. Connect with other CDH parents.

Who else do you know who could benefit from this information? Share it with them. It could make all the difference.

You can reach out to us for more information and help: +91 8100 334353 (Available on WhatsApp).

“Smile, breathe, and go slowly.” — Thich Nhat Hanh

Breathing difficulties can be quite alarming and overwhelming.

It’s important to understand how to respond to such situations as it can create a significant difference in outcomes.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to take when someone experiences breathing difficulties at home, how to manage it, and when to seek medical help.

What Are Breathing Difficulties?

Breathing difficulties can have multiple causes. Some of the most common causes are asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), pneumonia, heart conditions, allergic reactions or even anxiety.

India accounts for approximately 13.09% of the global asthma burden, with an estimated 3.4 crore cases. Asthma affects more than 3.5 crore people worldwide.

However, the severity of breathing problems can vary from mild shortness of breath to a life-threatening emergency. It is important to recognize the signs early so that you can take appropriate steps to save lives.

What Are The Key Signs to Watch For?

Here are some of the symptoms to watch out for:

Rapid or Shallow Breathing: This can indicate a problem with lung function or insufficient oxygen levels.

Blue or Pale Lips and Face: Cyanosis (a bluish tint to the lips, face, or extremities) could mean inadequate oxygen in the bloodstream.

Wheezing or Grunting: Constricted airways or accumulation of fluid in the lungs often lead to noisy breathing.

Nasal Flaring: This is a sign that the body is struggling to get enough oxygen, and it often occurs when breathing is labored.

What to Do If You’re Facing Breathing Difficulties?

Stay Calm:  Being anxious can accentuate breathing problems. Remember to stay as calm as possible. Take slow, deep breaths in order to reduce panic and prevent hyperventilation. One proven technique is to take one long, deep breath, followed by a second short inhalation. Then exhale. This is known to reduce stress and anxiety levels significantly

Assess the Severity:  If there is mild difficulty and no distress, then sitting in an upright position to open up the airways can help. If it’s severe, consult a healthcare professional immediately (or you can reach out to us for your Oxygen needs: +91 8100 334353 (Available on WhatsApp)) and opt for home remedies.

Use a Rescue Inhaler: If you or the person suffering has been prescribed an inhaler by a healthcare professional, use it when needed. A bronchodilator inhaler can help open the airways and improve breathing.

Administer Oxygen if Available: Supplemental oxygen may be necessary in severe cases. You can use an oximeter to monitor oxygen saturation. Maintain an oxygen cylinder for home use or a home O2 concentrator, and administer oxygen as prescribed. Portable O2 concentrators and oxygen machines for home use can provide consistent respiratory support for individuals with chronic conditions.

Positioning Matters: Specific postures can ease breathing. Like sitting up straight helps open the airways and can make breathing easier. Or try using a back rest or hospital beds which have reclining features. We provide hospital beds and back rests at home for ease of movement. In certain cases of COPD or asthma, leaning forward slightly with the hands on the knees can relieve pressure on the chest.

Check for Foreign Objects: If the breathing difficulty is accompanied by choking or coughing, immediately check for objects in the mouth or throat. Follow the Heimlich maneuver if needed.

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Stay Hydrated: At times dehydration can worsen breathing problems. Offer water if the person is in a position to drink.

Use a Non-Rebreather Mask: A non-rebreather mask, which provides 100% oxygen, can be life-saving in emergency situations when a person is not able to get enough oxygen from normal air. This should only be used if someone is trained in its use, as it requires proper fitting. Also, use this with supplemental oxygen at all times. If you need an oxygen concentrator for home use or a medical oxygen cylinder, you can reach out to us: +91 8100 334353 (Available on WhatsApp).

When To Seek Immediate Medical Attention?

If symptoms worsen despite initial efforts, immediately contact emergency services. It is necessary if the person has:

• Blue lips or face
• Chest pain along with breathing difficulty
• Confusion, drowsiness, or inability to stay conscious
• Wheezing, grunting, or any abnormal breathing noise
• Difficulty speaking full sentences due to shortness of breath

What Are Some Common Myths?

Myth: Asthma is the only cause of breathing difficulties.

Fact: Breathing difficulties can be caused by a variety of conditions including heart disease, pneumonia, anxiety, and allergies, not just asthma.

Myth: Using an inhaler too often will make it ineffective.

Fact: Inhalers, if prescribed, are safe to use as directed, even multiple times a day. Overuse should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Myth: If you don’t have access to a non-rebreather mask, breathing issues can’t be managed at home.

Fact: While a non-rebreather mask is helpful, other methods like sitting upright, using an inhaler, and applying supplemental oxygen (if available) can also manage breathing difficulties.

Myth: If someone is breathing heavily, they must be hyperventilating.

Fact: Heavy breathing can result from many conditions, including exertion, fever, anxiety, or a more serious medical condition. The cause needs to be assessed.

Myth: Hydration doesn’t impact breathing.

Fact: Dehydration can worsen breathing problems, particularly in respiratory conditions like asthma or bronchitis. Staying hydrated helps to thin mucus and improve airflow.

What Are Some Frequently Asked Questions?

Q. What should I do if someone is wheezing and struggling to breathe?

Wheezing may indicate asthma or another airway blockage. Administer a bronchodilator inhaler if available. If symptoms worsen, call emergency services immediately.

Q. Can anxiety cause difficulty breathing?

Yes, anxiety can lead to hyperventilation and difficulty breathing. Calm breathing exercises can help, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Q. How do I know when to use a non-rebreather mask?

A non-rebreather mask should only be used in emergencies when a person’s oxygen levels are dangerously low. Consult a healthcare provider if you’re unsure. Or you can reach out to us: +91 8100 334353 (Available on WhatsApp).

Q. What is the best position for someone having trouble breathing?

The best position is sitting up straight. In cases of severe breathing distress, leaning forward with hands on the knees can also help open airways.

Q. What should I do if someone is turning blue from breathing difficulty?

Blue or pale lips and face (Cyanosis) are signs of severe oxygen deprivation. Call emergency services immediately, and administer oxygen if available. Or you can reach out to us:  +91 8100 334353 (Available on WhatsApp).

Q. Which Indian Celebrities Faced Breathing Difficulties?

Amitabh Bachchan faced significant breathing problems during his battle with COVID-19. His situation required the use of oxygen therapy in the hospital. He later emphasized the importance of timely medical intervention for respiratory distress and the need for following health protocols during such illnesses.

Hema Malini has spoken publicly about her health challenges, including respiratory issues. Despite her active lifestyle, she managed her condition with regular check-ups and a personalized oxygen therapy plan.

Takeaway

Never ignore breathing difficulties, especially when they are sudden or severe. It’s important to recognize the signs early, stay calm, and administer basic first aid measures. Always consult your healthcare provider beforehand to create a personalized plan to manage such chronic respiratory conditions.

If you need oxygen concentrator rentals, an oxygen cylinder refill nearby, or portable oxygen concentrators, we are here to help. You can reach out to us: +91 8100 334353 (Available on WhatsApp).

Breathing is essential to life, and understanding how to respond in a crisis is a vital skill that can save lives.

Stay calm and breathe well!

 

“It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.” – Frederick Douglass

Parents may feel overwhelmed by their children’s respiratory problems, especially  when continuous care is required at home.

A 2024 guideline of WHO indicates that pneumonia and diarrhoea together account for 23% of under-five mortality, resulting in an estimated 1.17 million deaths annually in children under five globally.

In low and middle-income countries around the world, 98% of all children under the age of 5 are exposed to PM2.5 levels above WHO air quality guidelines.

Managing a child’s breathing issues, whether due to asthma or chronic lung conditions, requires understanding, patience, and proper support.

This article will help you learn how to provide pediatric respiratory care at home in a simple and practical way.

Recognizing Respiratory Conditions in Children

Since children’s respiratory systems are still developing, they are more susceptible to allergies, infections, and chronic conditions such as Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD) and asthma [in case of asthma you can add the link of the article that I’ve written before].

Common respiratory issues in children include:

Asthma: A chronic condition that causes airway inflammation and makes breathing difficult.

Bronchiolitis: A viral infection that affects the smallest airways in the lungs.

Pneumonia: A lung infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.

Cystic Fibrosis: A genetic disorder that leads to thick mucus buildup in the lungs.

Sleep Apnea: A condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep.

This is not an exhaustive list but includes some of the most common respiratory illnesses affecting children (and even adults).

What are Some Essential Home Care Strategies for Pediatric Respiratory Health?

Maintain Good Indoor Air Quality

•         Try to avoid smoking indoors.
•         Always use air purifiers to reduce allergens.
•         Clean and vacuum regularly to minimize dust.
•         Maintain proper humidity levels to prevent mold growth.

Ensure Proper Medication Management

•         Follow the doctor’s prescription for inhalers, nebulizers, or oral medications.
•         Teach your child how to use inhalers correctly.
•         Keep an emergency asthma plan in place if needed.

Use Nebulizers and Oxygen Therapy When Necessary

For children with severe conditions like cystic fibrosis or chronic lung diseases, oxygen therapy and oxygen machines may be necessary.

Make sure proper hygiene is maintained by regularly cleaning equipment and following medical guidelines. Home oxygen machines and oxygen concentrators can provide consistent respiratory support when needed.

Encourage Breathing Exercises

Simple exercises which might seem irrelevant, such as blowing bubbles or using incentive spirometers, can strengthen the lungs and improve oxygen flow.

Provide a Balanced Diet

A healthy diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E can boost lung function and immune response.

Watch for Warning Signs

If your child experiences severe shortness of breath, bluish lips, or unresponsiveness, seek medical help immediately. Or you could reach out to us: +91 8100 334353 (Also available on WhatsApp)

Myths vs. Facts About Pediatric Respiratory Care

Myth: Asthma is just a childhood condition and kids grow out of it.

Fact: While some children outgrow asthma, many continue to experience symptoms into adulthood. Proper management is important.

Myth: If a child needs oxygen therapy, they will become dependent on it forever.

Fact: Oxygen therapy is used as a temporary support in most cases and does not cause dependency when used correctly.

Myth: Nebulizers work better than inhalers for asthma.

Fact: Both devices are effective, but inhalers are often preferred due to portability and faster medication delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. How can I tell if my child is having trouble breathing?

Look for signs like rapid breathing, flaring nostrils, chest retractions (sucking in of the skin between ribs), or bluish lips. If these symptoms appear, seek medical attention immediately.

Q. Can my child go outside if they have asthma?

Yes, but check air quality levels and avoid exposure to pollution, smoke, or allergens that may trigger symptoms. Use masks like N95 and K95.

Q. How often should I clean my child’s nebulizer?

Wash and disinfect all parts of the nebulizer after each use to prevent infections and ensure effective treatment.

Q. Can a healthy diet help with respiratory issues?

Yes! Foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3s, and vitamins support lung function and strengthen the immune system.

Q. What should I do if my child has a severe asthma attack at home?

Use their prescribed rescue inhaler immediately, follow their asthma action plan, and seek emergency medical help if symptoms persist.

Takeaway

Pediatric respiratory care at home requires awareness, consistency, and the right approach.

By maintaining good air quality, managing medications properly, and recognizing warning signs early, you can help your child breathe easier and lead a healthier life.

If you’re looking for more information on childhood respiratory conditions, visit WHO’s official page on childhood respiratory diseases.

By taking small but meaningful steps, parents can create a safe and supportive environment for children with respiratory challenges.

Remember, the best care starts at home.

You can always reach out to us for help: +91 8100 334353 (Available on WhatsApp).

Our comprehensive range includes oxygen cylinders, oxygen concentrators, and hassle-free oxygen cylinder refill services, among other support, ensuring you have the lifeline you need, whenever you need.

“A child’s life is like a piece of paper on which every person leaves a mark.” – Chinese Proverb

For Further Reading

World Health Organization (WHO) – Childhood Respiratory Diseases

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Asthma in Children

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) – Childhood Interstitial Lung Disease

Management of common Respiratory Infections in Children in India.pdf

Prevalence, potential determinants, and treatment-seeking behavior of acute respiratory infection among children under age five in India: Findings from the National Family Health Survey, 2019-21