Bronchiolitis, a respiratory tract disease seen in infancy, occurs between the ages of 0-2 as a result of inflammation of the small airways due to viral infections. The disease, which may begin like a simple cold in the first few days, can quickly progress to noticeable respiratory problems such as wheezing, cough, and difficulty breathing. Bronchiolitis, which increases during the winter months, requires careful monitoring and timely medical evaluation because it can be more severe in infants since their respiratory system is not yet fully developed.
What is Bronchiolitis?
Bronchiolitis is a lower respiratory tract disease that develops as a result of inflammation of the small airways called bronchioles due to viral infections. The inflammation can lead to narrowing of the airways and wheezing respiratory efforts that make it harder for the baby to breathe. The most common cause is RSV, but flu and cold viruses can also lead to bronchiolitis.
The disease, which may present as acute bronchiolitis, is commonly seen in winter months and can be severe especially in premature babies and children with weakened immune systems.
What Are the Symptoms of Bronchiolitis in Babies?
In babies, bronchiolitis may initially present with mild cold symptoms. However, as inflammation progresses, it may turn into more distinct respiratory issues. Symptoms intensify within 2-3 days and can affect the baby's breathing capacity. Therefore, recognizing early symptoms is important for timely medical evaluation.
Common symptoms include:
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Wheezing respiration
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Persistent or increasing cough
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Nasal congestion and discharge
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Rapid breathing
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Chest retractions
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Difficulty feeding, frequent pausing while nursing
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Irritability, insomnia, and lack of appetite
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Fever
What Causes Bronchiolitis?
The main cause of bronchiolitis is the infection of the small airways by various viruses. These viruses cause inflammation and swelling in the bronchioles, narrowing air passage; this can lead to wheezing and shortness of breath in babies. The disease mostly spreads during the winter months and periods when staying indoors is more common. Infections may progress more rapidly in babies whose immune systems are not fully developed yet.
Viruses causing bronchiolitis include:
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Rhinovirus
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Adenovirus
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Influenza and parainfluenza viruses
Factors increasing the risk of developing bronchiolitis:
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Premature birth
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Weakness of the immune system
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Being in crowded environments
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Exposure to passive cigarette smoke
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Increase in viral infections during winter and early spring
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Babies with chronic lung disease
How is Bronchiolitis Treated?
The main goal of treatment is to ease the baby's breathing, maintain oxygen levels, and prevent fluid loss. As the course of the disease may vary in each baby, the treatment approach is determined according to the child's clinical condition, age, and risk factors.
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Respiratory monitoring: The doctor regularly evaluates the baby's respiratory rate, wheezing, and oxygen saturation.
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Oxygen support: Oxygen support may be provided in a hospital setting to babies with low oxygen levels or noticeable respiratory distress.
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Nasal aspiration: Clearing nasal congestion using saline solution and aspiration significantly alleviates breathing.
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Providing a humid environment: Humidifying the room reduces irritation in the airways, making breathing easier.
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Fluid support: If inadequate fluid intake is present in babies having trouble feeding, intravenous fluid support may be required in a hospital setting.
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Medication: Bronchodilator or nebulizer treatments are not standard for every baby. The necessity of these medications is assessed by the physician according to the baby's symptoms.
What Can Be Done to Prevent Bronchiolitis?
Simple precautions taken during the winter months, when viruses are commonly transmitted, can significantly reduce the risk of infection in babies. For babies whose immune systems are still developing, hygiene, appropriate environmental conditions, and avoiding contact with infected individuals are important.
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Hand Hygiene: Hands should be washed frequently with water and soap; attention should be paid to hand hygiene before caring for the baby.
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Keep Away from Sick People: Contact with individuals exhibiting cold and cough symptoms should be minimized as much as possible.
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Protection from Passive Cigarette Smoke: Cigarette smoke irritates airways and increases bronchiolitis risk, and the environment where the baby is should be smoke-free.
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Limiting Crowded Environments: During the RSV season (winter months), prolonged presence of babies in crowded indoor spaces can increase infection risk.
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Ventilation of Areas: Regular ventilation of areas like home and nursery reduces virus concentration.
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Breastfeeding: Breast milk contains important antibodies that strengthen the baby's immune system.
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Surface Cleaning: Frequent cleaning of shared surfaces reduces the risk of transmission.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does bronchiolitis last?
Bronchiolitis may resolve within 7-10 days, but the cough can continue for several weeks in some babies. The recovery period may be longer in premature babies or those with underlying conditions, requiring close monitoring.
Is bronchiolitis contagious?
Yes, the viruses causing bronchiolitis can be transmitted through droplets and contact. Being in the same environment with sick individuals poses a risk, and transmission speed can increase, especially during winter months.
What is the difference between bronchiolitis and pneumonia?
Bronchiolitis occurs with inflammation of the bronchioles, whereas pneumonia is an inflammation of lung tissue. Pneumonia symptoms can be severe and the diagnosis often clarified with imaging.
Can acute bronchiolitis recur?
Some babies may experience recurring wheezing episodes after an RSV infection. This situation often does not mean asthma, but regular follow-up is important.
