What is bronchiolitis?

• Bronchiolitis is a common lung infection that affects infants and young children
• It causes inflammation and congestion in the small airways of the lungs (bronchioles)
• It is most commonly caused by a virus, especially respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
• It usually occurs during the fall and winter months
• It can range from mild to severe and may require hospitalization in some cases

What causes bronchiolitis?

• Viral infections, with RSV being the most frequent cause
• Other viruses like influenza, rhinovirus, adenovirus, or parainfluenza may also cause it
• Spread through coughs, sneezes, or touching contaminated surfaces
• Often affects babies under 2 years old, especially those under 6 months

Who is at risk for bronchiolitis?

• Infants younger than 6 months
• Babies born prematurely
• Children with heart or lung conditions
• Children with weakened immune systems
• Exposure to tobacco smoke or crowded environments (e.g., daycare)

What are the symptoms of bronchiolitis?

• Runny nose and nasal congestion
• Mild fever and cough
• Wheezing and noisy breathing
• Rapid or shallow breathing
• Trouble feeding or drinking
• Irritability or fatigue
• In severe cases, bluish skin around lips or fingertips (due to low oxygen)

How is bronchiolitis diagnosed?

• Diagnosis is usually based on medical history and physical exam
• Doctor listens for wheezing or crackling in the lungs
• Nasal swab may be taken to test for RSV or other viruses
• Chest X-ray or oxygen level checks may be done in severe cases

What is the treatment for bronchiolitis?

• Most cases are mild and treated at home with supportive care
• Ensure the child stays hydrated with fluids or breast milk
• Use a humidifier to ease breathing
• Suction the nose with saline drops to clear mucus
• Fever can be managed with acetaminophen or ibuprofen (as directed by a doctor)
• Hospitalization may be required for oxygen therapy or IV fluids in severe cases

What are the complications of bronchiolitis?

• Dehydration due to poor feeding
• Low oxygen levels
• Apnea (temporary pause in breathing) in very young babies
• Increased risk of developing asthma later in childhood
• Respiratory failure in severe or high-risk cases

How can bronchiolitis be prevented?

• Wash hands often and thoroughly
• Avoid close contact with sick people
• Clean and disinfect toys, surfaces, and objects regularly
• Keep babies away from tobacco smoke
• Limit exposure to crowded places during RSV season
• For high-risk infants, a monthly antibody injection (palivizumab) may be recommended

When should you see a doctor?

• If your child has difficulty breathing or feeding
• If symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days
• If your baby has blue lips, nails, or skin
• If breathing becomes rapid, shallow, or includes chest retractions
• If the child is unusually sleepy or unresponsive