|
|
Childhood Illnesses
and Conditions
: Bronchiolitis
Every year many babies develop bronchiolitis and some so badly, that they have
to be admitted to hospital. Bronchiolitis is an infection of the bronchioles,
or small lung airways (tubes).
What causes Bronchiolitis?
The Respiratory Syncytial Virus known commonly as RSV causes this infection,
which usually develops during the winter or early spring. RSV usually causes
the typical bronchiolitis symptoms described below, in children less than 2
years of age. In older people, it usually causes infections that resemble
the common cold.The typical symptoms of bronchiolitis in babies include:
Cough
Wheezing
Difficulty Breathing
Production of large amounts of secretions
Decrease feeding or drinking
If your baby has any of the above symptoms you should see your doctor immediately
What is the treatment of bronchiolitis?
Because bronchiolitis is caused by a virus, antibiotics are not effective in treating RSV.
An antiviral medication (ribavarin) has been tested. Because of its potential side effects
and impracticality of use, this medication is not generally used. The treatment is therefore
supportive, and depending on the severity of the infection. Most infants with RSV
bronchiolitis cough and/or wheeze a bit, but in general feed well and do not need
oxygen or any other treatment. Within a few days their infection clears on its own.
More severe cases of Bronchiolitis
Some babies may have enough discomfort and difficulty
from the wheezing and secretions that they may need extra oxygen, or even the administration
of Ventolin or salbutamol (a broncholdilator used in asthma). Also, if they cannot drink
enough they may require an intravenous. One of the most important aspects of treatment is
helping these babies get rid of their excessive secretions and this usually requires
hospitalization. Rarely, in very severe cases, some babies are actually placed on respirators
to help them breath.
Are any babies at high risk?
Premature babies, and those with chronic respiratory or cardiac problems are at higher risk for developing severe bronchiolitis. Because of this, a special vaccine has been developed for these
high-risk babies that offers protection against RSV. If you have a baby who is at high risk for RSV,
you should speak to your doctor about it.
Is bronchiolitis asthma or can it develop into asthma?
The issue about RSV becoming asthma is potentially confusing because the symptoms of
bronchiolitis are the same as those of asthma. Asthma is defined as a condition of recurrent episodes
of wheezing and/or cough and/or difficulty breathing in a child with no other lung problems or conditions.
There is some uncertainty as to the relationship of RSV infection and subsequent development of asthma;
some experts suggest that children who have an inherited allergic or asthma tendency are more prone
to RSV infections, while others say that RSV may trigger subsequent asthma. In any case, if a child
seems to be getting recurrent episodes, asthma would be the more likely cause and not recurrent
bronchiolitis. However, if a child has had only one isolated RSV episode and nothing else later on,
then by definition this is not asthma.
Other Childhood Illnesses
and Conditions |
|
The information provided in this site is
designed to be an educational aid only. It is not intended to
replace the advice and care of your child's physician, nor is
it intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. If
you suspect that your child has a medical condition, always
consult a physician.
© Autograph Communications Inc.,
All rights reserved
|
|
|
|
