Bronchiolitis, which is usually benign, is a disease that causes respiratory problems in infants and young children. To treat it, it is advisable to visit a specialist while following some recommendations.
Bronchiolitis, a contagious virus
Bronchiolitis, which affects infants and young children, is a virus that attacks the bronchioles and small terminal bronchi in the lungs. As the bronchioles become clogged with secretions, air no longer circulates properly.
Highly contagious, the virus that causes RSV disease, or respiratory syncytial virus, spreads through the air. So your child can catch it with the help of an object, a kiss, or the hand of an infected person. It should be noted that the virus attacks 30% of children aged 0 to 2 years.
Symptoms of Bronchiolitis
The virus manifests itself as a cold, which then turns into bronchitis. Air no longer circulates properly thereafter because secretions form when the bronchioles become inflamed. Dry cough with wheezing, noisy breathing, chest tightness and fullness are the main symptoms of bronchiolitis.
The baby has a poor appetite and has trouble breathing when holding a bottle. Small children can also be victims of coughing-induced vomiting from exhaustion.
If bronchiolitis is considered a benign disease, it can still seriously affect premature infants or children with neonatal conditions. It is best to consult a specialist as soon as possible to avoid any complications.
Treating bronchiolitis with simple gestures
Bronchiolitis must be treated as soon as possible because it can be dangerous for the baby. So pediatricians prescribe respiratory physical therapy, during which a physical therapist works by tapping and tapping the child’s chest to drain mucus from the bronchioles into the large bronchi. This practice is designed to make the latter cough and spit.
The toddler, like his mother, will struggle through this ordeal, especially for babies, but his breathing will improve noticeably by the end of the session. The sessions are multiplied to better clear your child’s bronchioles. To cool down, the pediatrician will also prescribe medication.
Your child will be better in about 10 days, but he may cough for several weeks. Cases requiring apnea or even temporary respiratory support under hospital monitoring are rare.
You must be with him for as long as possible throughout his illness, especially at night, and watch over him carefully. One of the things you need to pay attention to when you’re around him is to watch his breathing and see if he’s walking too fast. Also watch for his apnea, and check him for a fever. For fever over 38°C, it is best to see a doctor.