Bronchiolitis

Bronchiolitis is a chest infection caused by a virus – most commonly respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It often occurs in babies during the first year of life and it usually happens in winter. It is the most common reason for admission to hospital in infants during the first 12 months. The virus infects the small breathing tubes (bronchioles) of the lungs; this causes them to become narrowed by mucus and inflammation.
Generally, the baby first develops symptoms of a cold, such as a runny nose, a cough and fever. Over the next day or so, the coughing may become worse and there may be a wheezing sound heard when the baby breathes out. Sometimes the baby finds it hard to breathe and does not feed or sleep well. Your baby may look as if they have asthma.
The wheezing sound, if present, usually lasts for two to three days. As the wheezing settles, the baby gradually improves. However, the cough may last up to a month.

Home Management

Most babies with bronchiolitis can be managed at home, and they get better within a week to ten days. As it is a viral infection, antibiotics will not help. Sometimes, other medication may be prescribed to open up the airways and settle the wheezing, but these may not be effective in babies under 6 – 12 months of age. Your baby may need extra fluids. Give an extra bottle or two per day, and give more frequent breastfeeds. As feeding may be difficult, offer smaller feeds but more often. Bronchiolitis is infectious so you should keep your baby away from other babies whilst they are getting better.

Remember

• Bronchiolitis gets better in a week to ten days.
• It is a viral infection, so medications, especially antibiotics, may not help.
• Your baby may need extra fluid, offer small frequent feeds or frequent breast feeds
• Consult your doctor if your child has difficulty with breathing, feeding or sleeping