What is bronchiolitis?

What is bronchiolitis?

Bronchiolitis is a condition caused by the inflammation of the small airways in the lungs, known as the bronchioles. It is a type of lower respiratory tract infection.

Bronchiolitis most commonly affects infants and young children, but can also occur in adults. The condition is usually viral in origin, with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) being the most common cause.

Symptoms of bronchiolitis include a runny nose, cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, the infection can lead to hospitalization.

There is no specific treatment for bronchiolitis, but the condition usually resolves on its own within a few weeks. In some cases, however, the infection can lead to complications such as pneumonia.

If you think your child may have bronchiolitis, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Prevention of Bronchiolitis

There are things you can do to reduce the chance that your child will get bronchiolitis or spread the virus that causes it, such as:

Frequent hand washing and children’s hands Regularly wash or wipe down toys and clean surfaces

Use disposable tissues and throw them away after use

Keep newborns away from people with colds or flu—especially if they are under 2 months old or born prematurely

It is also important not to smoke around children. Children who inhale cigarette smoke are at higher risk of developing bronchiolitis.

Children at risk of severe bronchiolitis

Some children may be at higher risk for severe bronchiolitis. This includes children who: born very early, have heart or lung disease or weak immune system.

These children may be treated during the winter (October to March) to prevent them from developing severe bronchiolitis.