Bronchiolitis: Signs to watch out for in young children

Posted on by swfhealthsocial

Content originally from NHS Mid and South Essex

It’s important to be aware of common respiratory illnesses that can affect young children – especially during the winter months. In this email, I want to discuss bronchiolitis, a condition that can cause breathing difficulties in infants and toddlers.

What is Bronchiolitis?

Bronchiolitis is a viral infection that affects the small airways in the lungs, primarily in children under the age of two. It is mostly caused by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) but can also be caused by other viruses such as rhinovirus and influenza (flu). To protect newborns from RSV, it is important for pregnant women and birthing people to receive the RSV vaccine at 28 weeks, which helps shield babies during the first six months of life.

When to seek medical help

Bronchiolitis can be a concerning illness for parents, but with the right care and support, most children recover fully within a week or two. It’s important to remember that antibiotics don’t work on a viral illness like bronchiolitis. By staying informed about the symptoms of bronchiolitis and knowing when to seek medical help, you can help ensure your child stays healthy and happy this winter season.

Treatment and management

Treatment for bronchiolitis is focused on relieving symptoms and supporting your child’s breathing. This may include:

  • Keeping your child well-hydrated with fluids such as breast milk, formula, or water (for older infants)
  • Using a cool mist humidifier to help ease congestion.
  • Elevating your child’s head while sleeping to make breathing easier.
  • Monitoring your child closely for any signs of worsening symptoms

Prevention

You can help reduce your child’s risk of infection by washing your hands regularly, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and keeping your child away from tobacco smoke.

If you have any questions or concerns about bronchiolitis or your child’s respiratory health, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.