Bronchiolitis is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the bronchioles, which can lead to difficulty breathing. It is most common in children under two years old and can be treated at home, but severe cases may require hospitalization. Symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, and extreme tiredness. Parents should seek medical attention if they notice these symptoms.
Bronchiolitis is an infection of the bronchioles, tiny branches of the airways that play an important role in lung function. Most cases of bronchiolitis are very mild and can be treated at home with support such as plenty of rest and fluids. In some cases, however, the condition can become serious and the patient may require hospitalization and measures such as intubation or supplemental oxygen. A pediatrician can evaluate a child to determine whether or not hospitalization is needed.
This condition is most common in children under two years of age, possibly because their airways are so small that even mild inflammation can become a problem. In infants, bronchiolitis can be especially dangerous. It is usually caused by a viral infection that leads to inflammation of the bronchioles. Rates of bronchiolitis are especially common in the fall and winter, during the winter cold and flu season. People can reduce their risks by making sure their children wash their hands regularly and asking people to wash their hands before handling their children.
The normal course of bronchiolitis begins with the classic symptoms of a respiratory virus, such as sniffing, sneezing, mild fever, and so on. Eventually, the patient develops difficulty breathing. This can include wheezing, flaring of the nostrils with each breath and noticeable shortness of breath. Difficulty breathing is caused by swelling of the bronchioles in response to inflammation. In otherwise healthy patients, the body is usually able to resolve the inflammation on its own.
Keeping a child in bed and providing warm liquids is often enough to deal with a case of bronchiolitis. However, there are situations where people should call their doctor. Signs that you need medical attention include: skin color changes, extreme tiredness, red lips, dehydration, severe wheezing, rapid breathing, or obvious difficulty breathing. These symptoms indicate that the inflammation is severe and the patient needs more aggressive medical treatment.
Respiratory infections are a common problem in young children. Healthcare professionals try to strike a balance between seeing a child for any cold and having parents wait too long for treatment. As a general rule, a pediatrician would much rather see a patient for a mild condition that requires no action than see a patient when it is too late. If parents suspect a child is having difficulty breathing or are concerned about the way they are breathing, they should take them to a doctor.
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