Bronchiolitis

• Bronchiolitis is a viral infection of the small airways in the lungs called bronchioles. 
• When the airways become infected, they swell and fill with mucous making it difficult to breathe. 
• Most cases of bronchiolitis occur in children under 2. 
• The majority of cases are caused by RSV(respiratory syncitial virus), but many other viruses can cause it as well
• Most cases of bronchiolitis resolve in 2-3 weeks, but can sometimes take longer.
• Antibiotics cannot be used to treat bronchiolitis because it is caused by a virus.
• Often, inhaled medications are used to help with the symptoms of bronchiolitis.

Symptoms can include:

• Runny nose and congestion
• Cough
• Fever
• Wheezing

Sometimes more severe respiratory symptoms develop.  You should call immediately for an appointment if your child has any of the following:

• Rapid breathing
• Difficulty eating
• Retractions which are pulling in of the skin beneath and between the ribs during each breath
• Flaring of the nostrils
• Listlessness and lethargy
• Dehydration