Bronchiolitis is an infection of the lungs that is common in infants and small children. This condition causes swelling and irritation in the small airways of the lungs, as well as buildup of mucus in the lungs. This condition is usually caused by a virus. Many children originally show symptoms that appear like the common cold but then grow worse. The most recognizable symptom of this condition is a high-pitched whistling sound when the child breathes.
The most common symptoms of this condition are:
This condition is caused by inflammation and mucus in the bronchioles. These are the smallest airways in the lung, and they can become infected as well as inflamed related to Bronchiolitis. This health concern is most commonly linked with a respiratory condition called RSV. However, Bronchiolitis can also follow a regular cold or flu.
The most common risk factors for Bronchiolitis are:
This condition is usually diagnosed in a doctor’s office through a physical exam. The doctor will usually listen to the child’s lungs and hear the characteristic wheezing of this condition. Chest X-rays can also be done to look for signs of pneumonia. Additional tests might be necessary if your doctor believes that your child has other health conditions that are contributing to their symptoms.
Prevention of Bronchiolitis requires that your child is not exposed to large groups of people during cold and flu season. If you know that someone in your family is sick, make sure that everyone washes their hands regularly until the sick family member is no longer contagious. Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces in the home can help greatly in preventing the spread of colds and flu.
Treatment of Bronchiolitis can vary depending on the severity of your child’s symptoms. For children with severe trouble breathing, breathing treatments might be done, or your child might be admitted to the hospital. Bacterial infections that are secondary to a cold or flu can be treated with antibiotics, and medications can be prescribed that help to remove mucus from the lungs and reduce coughing.
Corticosteroids are a common treatment for this condition, and a rescue inhaler might be sent home with your child from the doctor’s office as well. Parents will need to monitor the condition of their child’s breathing to ensure that their Bronchiolitis does not worsen and cause secondary problems like pneumonia or severe breathing problems.