Bronchiolitis is an infection in the chest that is viral in nature. It usually disrupts the small-sized breathing tubes inside the lungs. The condition affects infants below 6 months old but can occur among those up to 12 months. Remember that smoking increases the risk for infants to develop the condition.
Bronchiolitis typically starts as a cold. After a day or so, the infant starts to cough and develops wheezy and rapid breathing. The child is usually sick for 3-5 days and the cough might last for 2-3 weeks. Infants who are premature and those who have heart disease or major birth defects are at higher risk for a severe case.
Indications
- Cough
- Wheezing
- Nasal flaring
Bronchiolitis typically starts as a cold. After a day or so, the infant starts to cough and develops wheezy and rapid breathing. - Rapid breathing
- Difficulty breathing
The condition might strikingly resemble asthma but it is entirely different. Since the airways of young infants are immature, they do not constrict in the same manner as a child with asthma.
Management of bronchiolitis
Bronchiolitis is treated as a viral infection with the following measures:
- Ensure that the child gets enough rest.
- Provide the child with small amounts of fluids regularly
- Paracetamol for infants can be given if needed. Make sure that the instructions are carefully followed.
- Avoid smoking around the child whether in the house or vehicle since it can worsen the symptoms.
- If the child is significantly distressed and has difficulty breathing, being admitted to a hospital might be needed so that he/she is closely monitored, given oxygen and even intravenous therapy.
When to seek medical care
Bronchiolitis can make a child sick for 3-5 days, but the cough is expected to last for weeks. Oftentimes, the sickness is relatively mild and does not necessitate special treatment. It is vital to seek medical care if the child:
- Starts to breath rapidly or irregularly or both
- Turns bluish
- Refuses to drink or eat
- Appears pale, tired, sweaty and irritable
Quick Note / Disclaimer
The material posted on this page on bronchiolitis is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn to recognize and manage respiratory conditions including bronchiolitis, register for a first aid and CPR course with Saskatoon First Aid.