When we talk about bronchiolitis, we immediately think of the most well-known viral infection. Very common in babies, its symptoms are very similar to a cold or the flu, and usually appear more frequently in winter and autumn.

What is Bronchiolitis?

Bronchiolitis is characterized by inflammation of the bronchioles, which, due to swelling, makes it difficult for the baby to breathe. During the natural breathing process, air enters through the nose and passes through the pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and finally reaches the bronchioles, precisely where the exchange of oxygen for carbon dioxide occurs.This disease is caused specifically by damage to the air tubes of the lung (bronchioles). It is usually accompanied or not by mucous secretion, which causes blockage or difficulty for air to pass through.

Is Bronchiolitis Contagious?

Transmission usually occurs together with the flu or a cold, as it is caused by the same virus. With babies, it happens more frequently in those who attend nurseries and daycare centers or have a lot of contact with many people.

Causes of Bronchiolitis

Besides the colder seasons being more prone to bronchiolitis outbreaks, there are some factors that can increase the likelihood if the baby is exposed, such as:

  • Inhaling dust
  • Cigarette smoke
  • Exposure in public places (malls, parks)
  • Respiratory infections

Bronchiolitis can also be caused by other viruses such as: Influenza, parainfluenza, enteroviruses, and even bocavirus. And if the baby has acute bronchiolitis together with any of these viruses, it can get more serious and require immediate medical care.

Risk Factors

For babies who crawl, direct contact with the floor and hands in the mouth can be an aggravating factor. Make it a habit to always wash the baby’s hands and teach older children in contact with the baby not to touch their faces, and when sneezing or coughing, to cover up to prevent spreading viruses to the baby.

Symptoms of Bronchiolitis

As we know, bronchiolitis has symptoms very similar to those of a cold or flu, some of which stand out due to worsening, such as:

  • Severe cough lasting more than two weeks;
  • Difficulty breastfeeding;
  • Decreased appetite;
  • Drowsiness;
  • Lethargy;
  • Wheezing in the chest;
  • Fever

Among the symptoms, the breathing rate may change, as well as tiredness and, in some cases, nighttime apnea. A good tip is to have an oximeter, a device that measures the child’s oxygenation, always on hand. It costs about RS130.00 and can save your child’s life. Good oxygen saturation is always above 95; below 90, the child needs to be seen by a doctor.

Is Bronchiolitis Curable?

Bronchiolitis is curable, and in most cases does not require clinical treatment, unless the case worsens. In some situations, medical intervention is needed for more specific treatment.

Treatment for Bronchiolitis

Home treatment: If the child or baby does not have any severe respiratory distress, treatment can be done at home with plenty of rest, intensive hydration (breast milk and water), and fever control. If already eating solid foods, meals should be divided to avoid nausea and weakness.Clinical treatment: When cases are more severe, hospitalization may be necessary for more specific care. At the hospital, hydration can be given through IV fluids, and respiratory physical therapy helps to eliminate lung secretions more effectively.

How to Prevent Bronchiolitis

One of the best ways to prevent bronchiolitis is to avoid exposing the baby to risk and contamination factors. Parents should always have clean hands when touching the baby and, if possible, use antibacterial soap or alcohol gel before and after contact.Every care is important, and when it comes to our children’s health, even more so. In cold weather, keep your baby bundled up and away from crowded places where viruses spread. Keep your home well ventilated and your baby always well hydrated.Bronchiolitis is a very common disease, and often, even if you take good care of your baby, they may still get it, so don’t blame yourself. Prevention is important, but taking proper care when it does occur is essential to guarantee your baby’s well-being.See Also: Find Out When Babies Can Go Out for a WalkPhoto: Myriams-Fotos