Bronchiolitis is a viral infection of the lungs that leads to the inflammation of the bronchioles, potentially causing mild to moderate respiratory distress. Bronchioles are the smallest airway branches connecting to the lung’s air sacs (alveoli).

Causes of Bronchiolitis

The most common virus causing bronchiolitis is the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). However, other viruses can also be responsible, including:

• Human rhinovirus
• Coronavirus
• Human metapneumovirus
• Adenovirus
• Parainfluenza virus
• Human bocavirus

Symptoms of Bronchiolitis

Bronchiolitis initially presents with symptoms similar to a common cold:

• Nasal congestion and a runny nose
• Cough
• Mild fever Generally, symptoms improve on their own. However, sometimes the cough can worsen, leading to wheezing or difficulty breathing. If symptoms become severe, it’s crucial to seek medical advice, particularly if the child is younger than 12 weeks or has other risk factors for bronchiolitis.

Emergency medical assistance is required if the child experiences any of the following:

• Blue or gray skin, lips, or nails due to low oxygen levels
• Difficulty breathing, speaking, or crying
• Refusal to eat or drink, or rapid breathing that prevents feeding
• Very rapid, shallow breathing
• Rib retractions or flared nostrils when breathing
• Wheezing sounds when breathing
• Lethargy and fatigue

Risk Factors for Bronchiolitis

Bronchiolitis typically affects children under 2 years old, with infants younger than 3 months being at the highest risk due to their underdeveloped lungs and immune systems. Rarely, adults can also develop bronchiolitis.

Other risk factors include:

• Low birth weight (premature infants)
• Age under 5 months
• Congenital respiratory abnormalities
• Congenital immunodeficiency disorders
• Chronic lung disease (bronchopulmonary dysplasia)
• Heart conditions and other lung diseases
• Weakened immune system
• Exposure to tobacco smoke
• Frequenting crowded places

Diagnosing Bronchiolitis

A doctor can diagnose bronchiolitis through a medical history and physical examination, which includes listening to lung sounds with a stethoscope and measuring blood oxygen levels with a pulse oximeter. Tests and x-rays are generally unnecessary unless the child is at risk for severe bronchiolitis, symptoms worsen, or another medical issue is suspected.

Treatment for Bronchiolitis

Bronchiolitis can usually be managed at home, with the illness typically lasting 7-14 days. It’s essential to monitor symptoms closely and seek medical advice if they worsen. For mild to moderate symptoms, nasal saline drops and antipyretics can be used. Severe cases may require hospitalization for hydration and oxygen therapy.

Home Remedies:

• Humidify the air: A humidifier can help clear mucus and alleviate coughing.
• Maintain hydration: Infants should consume breast milk or formula. Older children can have other fluids.
• Reduce nasal congestion: Saline drops or sprays can help.
• Avoid tobacco smoke: Smoke can exacerbate respiratory symptoms.

Preventing Bronchiolitis

Preventive measures include:

• Limiting contact with sick individuals
• Frequent hand washing and disinfecting surfaces
• Breastfeeding when possible
• Annual flu vaccinations for children over 6 months and adults
• Administering palivizumab to high-risk infants to reduce the risk of RSV infection