Bronchiolitis is a common respiratory condition in children. How do we detect it? What can we do as parents?
Bronchiolitis is a common respiratory infection in infants that usually presents with fever, cough, fatigue, respiratory distress, etc.
The most affected are usually children up to two years of age, being children under one the most likely to catch it.
The main cause is lung infection, with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) being the main agent causing it.
An inflammatory reaction occurs in the bronchiolar area of the lungs that will lead to an increase in mucus production and make breathing difficult.
Symptoms of bronchiolitis
The most common symptoms are:
- Breathing difficulty.
- Coughing.
- Fever.
- Fatigue.
Warning signs of bronchiolitis
An emergency paediatrician should be consulted when available:
- Decreased intake.
- Nasal flaring.
- Subcostal run.
- Tachypnea.
- Cyanosis.
Medical treatment:
According to the doctor’s criteria it will consist of:
- Medication (Antibiotics).
- Aerosol therapy (Bronchodilators).
Physiotherapeutic treatment:
- Elimination of nasal and lung secretions.
- Improvement of ventilation.
Basic advice:
- Hydration of the child.
- Environmental humidification.
- Avoiding chemicals in the house (bleach, disinfectants, etc.).
- Take care of the position when sleeping.
- Visit the paediatrician and the physiotherapist.
Licenciado en Kinesiología y Fisiatría.
Diplomado en Fisioterapia.
Experto en Posturología Clínica.
CORPS À L’AISE – CENTRO DE REHABILITACIÓN
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