Bronchiolitis
Bronchiolitis
Bronchiolitis is a common respiratory illness in young children, typically caused by a viral infection. It affects the smallest air passages in the lungs, called the bronchioles, causing them to become inflamed and narrowed. This can lead to difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, and congestion. Bronchiolitis is most commonly caused by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), but other viruses such as adenovirus, influenza, and rhinovirus can also cause the condition.
Symptoms of bronchiolitis often start out similar to those of a common cold, with a runny nose and cough. As the illness progresses, symptoms can worsen and may include rapid or labored breathing, wheezing, coughing that may produce phlegm, fever, and irritability.
Bronchiolitis is a common respiratory illness in young children, typically caused by a viral infection. It affects the smallest air passages in the lungs, called the bronchioles, causing them to become inflamed and narrowed.
Symptoms of bronchiolitis often start out similar to those of a common cold, with a runny nose and cough. As the illness progresses, symptoms can worsen and may include rapid or labored breathing, wheezing, coughing that may produce phlegm, fever, and irritability.
Bronchiolitis is most commonly caused by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), but other viruses such as adenovirus, influenza, and rhinovirus can also cause the condition.
Bronchiolitis is usually diagnosed based on the child’s symptoms and a physical examination. In some cases, a chest X-ray or other tests may be done to rule out other conditions.
