BRONCHIOLITIS

Bronchiolitis is an infection causing inflammation and swelling of the small airways in the lungs called bronchioles. The narrowing of the airways cause air to become trapped in the lungs. It is usually caused by a virus and lasts about 7 to 10 days. Over 50 percent of the time, the virus responsible is respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). RSV bronchiolitis is very contagious. Currently there is no effective vaccine to prevent infection with RSV. A secondary bacterial infection is a possible complication.

Bronchiolitis occurs most often in infants and young children under the age of 2 years. Infants around 6 months of age are the most commonly affected. Infants at greatest risk include those born prematurely, had a low birth weight, have congenital heart or lung disease, or have a suppressed immune system. Bronchiolitis occurs most often in the late fall, winter, and early spring.

It usually starts with a runny nose, a low-grade fever and a cough. After a day or two, the cough becomes a deep, hacking cough. Breathing can quickly worsen with noticeable wheezing and fast, shallow breathing. At times, the infection can cause severe, even life-threatening symptoms that require hospitalization.

A cool mist humidifier in the child's bedroom may help make breathing easier. Saline solution drops and suctioning with a bulb syringe often helps clear a stuffy nose. It is important not to smoke around the child. Try small, frequent feedings to help prevent the child from tiring during their feedings and to increase the amount of fluids they take.

It is important to watch the child's breathing pattern because it may get worse very quickly. If the child is breathing so hard they can not cry or talk, if their nostrils are flaring, they are struggling for each breath, or are very drowsy, call "911" or the emergency medical system. Call your healthcare provider immediately if the child develops loud wheezing or worsening cough.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File RESP4930.RF2 VRS# 4930 Data Version 7.0