Bronchiolitis

Key Points

Overview

Bronchiolitis is a common chest infection that affects the small airways in the lungs of babies and children under 2 years old. It is different from bronchitis, which can affect people of all ages and causes a cough with more mucus. While usually mild and manageable at home, bronchiolitis can sometimes become serious, requiring hospital care. This infection is typically caused by a virus, most commonly the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). RSV is widespread and easily spread through coughs and sneezes. Almost all children will experience an RSV infection at least once before they turn two. There is no specific cure for bronchiolitis; treatment focuses on managing symptoms and providing supportive care. Most children recover fully within a few weeks, but close monitoring is important, especially for those at higher risk of severe illness.

Signs and Symptoms

• Sneezing
• Runny or blocked nose
• Slightly high temperature
• Cough
• Faster breathing
• Difficulty feeding or eating
• Noisy breathing (wheezing or crackling)
• Irritability

Things That Increase the Risk

• Being under 6 months old
• Born very prematurely
• Existing heart or lung condition
• Weakened immune system
• Exposure to cigarette smoke

Diagnosis

• Clinical assessment of symptoms
• Physical examination by a doctor
• Observation of breathing patterns

Treatment & Management

• Give children's paracetamol or ibuprofen for discomfort
• Keep child upright as much as possible
• Check on child regularly, including at night
• Encourage frequent small feeds or extra fluids
• Avoid smoking around your child
• Hospital care for severe cases

Prevention

• Wash hands and child's hands often
• Clean toys and surfaces regularly
• Avoid sharing cutlery and cups
• Use and dispose of tissues promptly
• Keep newborns away from people with colds or flu
• Consider RSV vaccination during pregnancy or for at-risk adults
• Antibody injections for high-risk children each winter

Related Diseases

• Common Cold
• Bronchitis
• Pneumonia
• Asthma
• Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Bronchiolitis: