Bronchiolitis- Kab Mob Hauv Hlab Ntsws Me

Bronchiolitis is a common lung infection that affects the small airways, called bronchioles, in the lungs. It primarily affects infants and young children, especially those under the age of two. This blog will help you understand what bronchiolitis is, the causes, symptoms, how it’s diagnosed, possible complications, and the treatment options.

Anatomy of Bronchiolitis

The lungs have large airways called bronchi that branch off into smaller airways called bronchioles. These bronchioles lead to tiny air sacs called alveoli, where oxygen enters the blood. In bronchiolitis, the bronchioles become inflamed and filled with mucus, which makes it difficult for air to flow freely in and out of the lungs.

Causes of Bronchiolitis

Bronchiolitis is most commonly caused by a virus, with the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) being the most frequent culprit. Other viruses that can cause bronchiolitis include:

• Influenza (the flu)

• Adenovirus

• Rhinovirus (the common cold)

These viruses spread through respiratory droplets when someone sneezes, coughs, or talks. It is highly contagious, especially in settings like daycare centers.

Symptoms of Bronchiolitis

Bronchiolitis often starts with symptoms similar to a cold, such as:

• Runny nose

• Mild cough

• Fever

As the infection worsens, symptoms may include:

• Wheezing (a high-pitched sound while breathing)

• Rapid, shallow breathing

• Difficulty breathing

• Coughing that worsens over time

• Flaring nostrils and using chest muscles to breathe

Symptoms typically worsen over the first few days and may last for up to two weeks.

Evaluation and Diagnosis

If a child shows signs of bronchiolitis, a doctor will likely begin by reviewing their medical history and conducting a physical exam. The doctor will listen to the child's lungs for wheezing or other abnormal sounds.

Additional tests might include:

• Pulse oximetry: A small device that measures oxygen levels in the blood.

• Chest X-ray: In more severe cases, an X-ray may be taken to check for pneumonia or other lung problems.

• Nasal swab test: To test for viruses like RSV.

Possible Complications

In most cases, bronchiolitis is mild and clears up on its own. However, some children, especially those with weakened immune systems or underlying health issues, may develop complications such as:

• Dehydration: From not drinking enough fluids due to difficulty breathing.

• Pneumonia: A bacterial infection in the lungs can develop after bronchiolitis.

• Respiratory failure: In severe cases, the child may need help breathing.

• Hospitalization: Some children may need to be hospitalized, especially if they have trouble breathing or are not getting enough oxygen.

Treatment for Bronchiolitis

There is no specific medication to cure bronchiolitis because it is caused by a virus. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and making the child comfortable. Most cases can be treated at home with:

• Hydration: Ensuring the child drinks plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

• Humidified air: Using a humidifier can help ease breathing.

• Nasal suctioning: Clearing mucus from the nose with a bulb syringe (I demonstrated how to do nasal suctioning in this video).

In more severe cases, treatment might include:

• Oxygen therapy: If the child’s oxygen levels are too low, they may need supplemental oxygen.

• Hospitalization: Children who have trouble breathing or are at high risk of complications may be hospitalized for observation and treatment.

In summary:

Bronchiolitis is a common respiratory illness in young children that typically resolves on its own with supportive care. However, it’s important to monitor symptoms, especially in infants, as complications can arise. If a child is struggling to breathe, shows signs of dehydration, or is worsening over time, it's crucial to seek medical help immediately. Preventive measures like good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with sick individuals can help reduce the spread of the viruses that cause bronchiolitis. See your doctor for medical advice!

References:

American Lung Association. (n.d.). Learn about bronchiolitis. Retrieved September 23, 2022, from https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/bronchiolitis/learn-about-bronchiolitis

UpToDate. (n.d.). Bronchiolitis and RSV in babies and children: The basics. Retrieved September 23, 2022, from https://www.uptodate.com/contents/bronchiolitis-and-rsv-in-babies-and-children-the-basics?search=bronchiolitis%20children&source=search_result&selectedTitle=3%7E150&usage_type=default&display_rank=3