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Bronchiolitis

Written by healthwords.ai's team of doctors and pharmacists based in UK | Updated: 24 Jan 2023 | 2 min read

Bronchiolitis is a really common lung infection that happens in young children, typically those under 2 years old, and is caused by a virus. The bronchioles are small airways in the lungs, branching off the two main bronchi, and the ‘itis’ part of bronchiolitis means inflammation, so bronchiolitis is inflammation and congestion of these small airways. 

Symptoms of bronchiolitis start off similarly to a cold with a blocked and runny nose, cough, and possibly fever. Children can also sound quite wheezy. 

Bronchiolitis is most commonly caused by a virus called RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) during the winter months and often it gets better by itself. In a small number of cases, hospital admission may be required.

Is my child at risk of bronchiolitis?

Kids younger than 12 weeks are most at risk because their immune system is still underdeveloped. Other risk factors include babies who are born early or have an underlying condition of the heart or lung. Kids who are exposed to smoke are also at risk of this lung infection. Breastfeeding for more than 2 months is protective against bronchiolitis.

How does the infection spread?

Viruses spread through respiratory droplets that can be passed from one person to another through coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces. The virus then enters through the mouth or nose and travels into the breathing system causing the bronchioles to become inflamed and overproduce mucus leading to congestion and blockage. Bronchiolitis typically lasts two to three weeks and a child can remain infected up to three weeks later.

When should I see my doctor?

Contact your doctor straight away if your child is having difficulty breathing: if breathing becomes fast, laboured or very noisy. If their breathing causes them difficulty eating or drinking, they are drinking less than half of what they usually drink, their temperature is not improving with paracetamol or ibuprofen, they become drowsy or you notice a blue tinge around their lips or fingernails, you should seek immediate medical attention.