Bronchiolitis (In Children): Its Symptoms, Types, Causes and Treatment

Difference Between Bronchitis and Bronchiolitis

While bronchitis and bronchiolitis sound similar, they affect different parts of the respiratory system and present distinct symptoms.

Bronchiolitis Symptoms

Understanding the symptoms of bronchiolitis helps in early identification and management. Here’s a breakdown of common and severe symptoms:

Common Symptoms

• Runny Nose: Often the first sign of bronchiolitis, which may progress from clear to thicker mucus.
• Loss of Appetite: Infants may refuse to feed due to discomfort.
• Shallow Breathing: Difficulty in taking deep breaths.
• Cough: Persistent cough, which may be dry or productive.
• Stuffy Nose: Nasal congestion further complicates breathing.

Severe Symptoms

• Wheezing: High-pitched sounds while breathing, indicating airway obstruction.
• Persistent Coughing: Prolonged cough may signal a worsening condition.
• Vomiting: May result from cough reflex or breathing difficulties.
• Grunting and Trouble Drinking: Infants may struggle to drink fluids or breastfeed.
• Blue or Gray Skin: Cyanosis due to low oxygen levels requires immediate attention.

When to Seek Help

Contact a healthcare provider if your child:

• Experiences blue or gray skin color
• Has trouble drinking or shows signs of dehydration
• Breathes with difficulty or wheezes persistently

Bronchiolitis Types

Bronchiolitis can be categorized based on its cause, with different types requiring specific management.

• Viral Bronchiolitis: The most common type, caused by viruses like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), rhinovirus, and influenza. Often seasonal, this type spreads through respiratory droplets.
• Allergic Bronchiolitis: Triggered by allergens like dust or pet dander, leading to inflammation and respiratory symptoms.
• Asthmatic Bronchiolitis: Seen in children with asthma, this type involves airway narrowing due to inflammation.

Bronchiolitis Causes

Bronchiolitis is most often caused by respiratory viruses, with RSV being the leading cause. Here’s a look at the most common culprits:

• Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): Highly contagious and commonly infects children by age 2.
• Adenoviruses: These viruses cause respiratory infections year-round, leading to bronchiolitis or pneumonia.
• Influenza Viruses: While primarily causing flu, they can also lead to bronchiolitis in young children.

How it Spreads

Bronchiolitis is highly contagious, spreading through:

• Respiratory droplets from sneezes or coughs
• Contact with contaminated surfaces like toys or door handles

Bronchiolitis Risks and Complications

While bronchiolitis often resolves with care, certain factors increase the risk of complications.

High-Risk Groups

• Premature Infants: Underdeveloped lungs make breathing more difficult.
• Heart or Lung Conditions: Children with congenital heart disease or asthma are more susceptible.
• Weakened Immune Systems: Those undergoing treatments or with chronic conditions.

Potential Complications

• Inadequate Oxygen Intake: Severe cases can lead to low oxygen, causing cyanosis.
• Difficulty Drinking: Respiratory distress can hinder feeding, risking dehydration.
• Low Oxygen Levels (Hypoxia): This serious condition may require hospitalization.

Bronchiolitis Prevention

Prevention is key to reducing the risk of bronchiolitis, especially during peak seasons.

Preventive Measures

• Limit Contact: Avoid crowded places, particularly with infants, during cold and flu season.
• Frequent Handwashing: Wash hands thoroughly, especially after being in public.
• Disinfect Surfaces: Regularly clean commonly touched items and toys.
• Avoid Sharing Cups or Utensils: Prevents cross-contamination within families.

Vaccines and Medications

• RSV Vaccine: Recommended for high-risk infants, this vaccine can reduce the severity of bronchiolitis.
• Influenza Vaccine: Can help prevent flu-related respiratory issues, reducing bronchiolitis risk.

Bronchiolitis Treatment

While there’s no cure, treatment focuses on symptom relief and supportive care.

At-Home Care

• Ensure Hydration: Encourage small, frequent feeds or oral rehydration solutions.
• Use Saline Drops: Eases nasal congestion, especially before feeding.
• Humidifier: Helps keep airways moist, easing breathing.

Medications

• Antipyretics: Reduces fever; consult your Bronchiolitis doctor for appropriate dosing.
• Bronchodilators: Used only if wheezing is present and prescribed by a doctor.

When Hospitalization is Needed

Severe cases may require hospitalization, where oxygen therapy and intravenous (IV) fluids provide additional support. In rare cases, children may need respiratory support.

Home Remedies to Treat Bronchiolitis

• Hydration: Keep fluids like water, clear soup, or milk (for breastfed infants) accessible.
• Fever Management: Use age-appropriate fever reducers after consulting a healthcare provider.
• Minimize Exposure to Irritants: Keep the child away from smoke, strong perfumes, and other airborne irritants.