Bronchiolitis
An infection of the bronchioles, the small air passages in the lungs.
Symptoms:
- Symptoms usually begin about two days after a cold that has become worse.
- Fever with a dry, rasping cough.
- Wheezing
- Rapid and difficult breathing
- Difficulty feeding.
- Bluish lips and tongue.
- Abnormal drowsiness.
Seriousness:
- See your doctor.
- If your child struggles to breathe take her to a hospital immediately.
Treatment:
- For a mild case, the doctor will most likely prescribe a bronchodilator.
- Give your child plenty of fluids.
- Liquid paracetamol will help bring the fever down.
- Thick mucus in the lungs may be loosened by slapping your child’s back gently as she lies over your knees.
- If your child needs hospital treatment she will be given oxygen.
Caused by a virus, this infection of the smallest airways usually occurs in very small children. Your baby will develop a dry rasping cough, wheezing and rapid breathing after a few days of what seems like a normal cold. This is most common in winter.
What to do
A severe case may need hospitalisation, so it’s best to get a doctor’s advice if you suspect your baby has this. The baby will be given medicine via a nebuliser, and in severe cases may need oxygen. At home, keep the house warm but not too hot, and consider using a humidifier to keep the air moist to ease the baby’s cough. The cough may last for 2 to 3 weeks.
For more detailed info on Common Childhood Conditions, go to Health24.