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Bronchiolitis is a viral lung infection very common in babies under 2 years old that causes inflammation of the narrower airways in the lung, known as bronchioles. When these channels ignite, they increase mucus production which makes it difficult for air to pass, causing difficulty in breathing.
In most cases, the symptoms of bronchiolitis improve in 2 or 3 weeks without specific treatment, however, it is very important that the baby is evaluated by the pediatrician when the first symptoms appear, not only to rule out other diseases, but also to assess the need for hospitalization, as some children may have very severe symptoms.
Main symptoms
In the first two days, bronchiolitis causes symptoms similar to flu or cold, such as a persistent cough, fever above 37.5º C, a stuffy nose and a runny nose. These symptoms usually last for a day or two and then progress to:
- Wheezing when breathing;
- Rapid breathing;
- Flaring of the nostrils when breathing;
- Increased irritability and tiredness;
- Decreased appetite;
- Difficulty sleeping.
Although the symptoms can be frightening for parents, bronchiolitis is curable and generally not serious, and can be treated at home with some simple precautions that relieve symptoms and make breathing easier.
See how to treat bronchiolitis at home.
How to confirm the diagnosis
The diagnosis of broqnuiolitis is usually made by the pediatrician after evaluating the signs and symptoms presented by the child, as well as the entire health history.
In some cases, especially when bronchiolitis is slow to pass or when symptoms are very severe, the pediatrician may order some blood tests to screen for other infections.
Which babies are at higher risk for bronchiloitis
Although bronchiolitis can appear in all children, this infection appears to be more frequent in children under two years of age, as their airways are narrower.
In addition, symptoms appear to be more severe in babies with:
- Age less than 12 months;
- Pulmonary or cardiac diseases;
- Low weight.
Premature babies or those with weakened immune systems are also at increased risk of developing more severe bronchiolitis, which may require hospitalization.
How the treatment is done
There is no antiviral drug to eliminate the virus that is causing bronchiolitis, but usually the virus is eliminated by the body naturally after 2 or 3 weeks.
During this time it is important to take care of the baby in the same way as treating a cold, letting it rest, avoiding temperature changes, making nebulizations with serum and keeping it well hydrated with milk and water. In addition, in cases of fever, for example, one should consult the pediatrician to use drugs such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen, to relieve symptoms.
It is rarely necessary for the baby to be admitted to the hospital, and these cases happen only when there is great difficulty in breathing.
Physiotherapy in bronchiolitis
Physiotherapy in children and babies with bronchiolitis can be especially important in the most severe cases, to reduce the consequences of infection in the respiratory system and, therefore, it can also be recommended by the pediatrician.
After infection, some children may have damage to the lung tissues, especially the bronchi and bronchioles, which causes increased mucus production and impairs breathing. Physiotherapy helps to clear the lungs by performing breathing exercises, reducing the difficulty in breathing.
How to prevent broqnuiolite from recurring
Bronchiolitis happens when a virus is able to reach the lung, causing inflammation of the airways. Thus, to prevent this problem from appearing it is recommended:
- Prevent the baby from playing with other babies with the flu or colds;
- Wash your hands before reaching for the baby, especially after being in contact with other people;
- Clean toys and surfaces where the baby plays frequently;
- Dress the baby properly, avoiding sudden changes in temperature;
- Avoid going in places with a lot of smoke or dust.
Although this infection is very common in any baby up to 2 years of age, the risk of developing it is greater when the baby is born premature, has heart problems, has not been breastfed or has siblings who attend schools and other highly populated places.
When to go to the doctor
It is always important to consult the pediatrician when there is any change in the baby's health. However, the most urgent cases of bronchiolitis happen when the baby has difficulty breathing, has blue skin on the feet and hands, does not eat, it is possible to notice the sinking of the rib muscles when breathing or the fever does not subside after 3 days.