Laramie Pediatrics, pc
Welcome to the online office of Laramie Pediatrics, pc
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Laramie Pediatrics, pc
Welcome to the online office of Laramie Pediatrics, pc
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A
Guide to Bronchiolitis
Bronchiolitis
is a “Chest Cold” that is most severe in infants less that 2 yrs old. Infection
and inflamation of the breathing tubes (“bronchioles”, hence the name), can
cause difficulty breathing requiring
Hospitalization. Most
infants start with a “head Cold” then breathe faster and harder, coughing in
spasms. Wheezing, like an asthmatic, can progress to difficulty breathing. Most cases are
from Viruses, the worst one called “RSV”.
The younger the infant, the more rapid and severe the illness can become. If severe
enough, extra oxygen and Hospitalization may be needed to aide the child’s breathing
difficulty. Treatment: Antibiotics don’t treat Viral Bronchiolitis,
but are sometimes used for secondary bacterial infections. Asthma drugs (Albuterol and Theophylline) help open up the airways clogged
with mucus, so they can cough and clear blocked breathing airways. Decongestant medicines help control the “Head
Cold”. Cough Suppressants should not be used as they can
make it harder to clear secretions. Fluids are important, as infants can dehydrate when
they have trouble breathing. Important
Caution: Infant’s breathing can rapidly change to the worse if you’re not careful. Breathing fast (1 ½ to 2 times the normal rate) and Breathing hard (sucking in between the ribs and collar bone) are important warning signs to watch for. Cyanosis, or a bluish gray color change in the face or hands is a dangerous warning sign for needing oxygen. Call if you see these changes. If you have any additional questions about bronchiolitis, you can contact our office at: |
Send mail to
Klep@Laramiekids.com with
questions or comments about this web site.
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