Bronchiolitis is a common illness in children before 2 years of age with a peak age of 3-6 months. It is the swelling and accumulation of mucus in the bronchioles (smallest air passage of lungs). Bronchiolitis is mostly caused due to viral infection from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The disease is contagious but it produces very mild symptoms in adults while in infants the symptoms can be severe.
Cause Of Bronchiolitis
Bronchiolitis occurs when the virus enters the respiratory passage and makes the bronchioles swell and inflamed. This leads to accumulation of mucus in the airway passage. This makes the flow of air difficult. The infants or young children are more susceptible to this as they have a narrow airway passage and get blocked easily.
It is most commonly caused by a virus called respiratory syntycial virus (RSV). But it can also occur due to adenovirus, influenza and parainfluenza virus.
Symptoms Of Bronchiolitis
Bronchiolitis begins as a mild upper respiratory tract infection. In a few days time, this can manifest into respiratory distress. This can exhaust the child and maintaining breathing becomes difficult for them.
Some of the symptoms that are commonly observed are:
1. Bluish tint can be seen on the skin due to lack of oxygen
2. Coughing and wheezing
3. Runny nose
4. fever
5. Rapid breathing
6. Nasal flaring in infants
7. Shortness of breath
8. Difficulty in breathing
Diagnosis Of Bronchiolitis
1. Physical examination
The doctor will conduct a physical examination with a stethoscope. A crackling sound can be heard from the chest.
2. Chest X ray
In severe cases the doctor may suggest a chest X ray to visually check any signs of pneumonia. It gives a picture of lung to see the extent of inflammation and accumulation of mucus.
3. Mucus swab
A sample of mucus swab is taken to determine the virus that might have caused bronchiolitis.
Treatment For Bronchiolitis
Bronchiolitis treatment requires no medication as antibiotics are not effective against viral infections. In severe cases hospitalization is required. Children are given oxygen therapy and fluid through vein.
Some therapies or measures that can be incorporated at home are:
1. Chest clapping
2. Give your child enough fluids. If the infant is older than 4 months then supplement breast milk with warm apple juice.
3. Use a humidifier to moist the air the baby is breathing in. This will loosen the mucus layer accumulated in the respiratory tract.
4. Keep the child away from tobacco smoke
5. The child should be given adequate rest.