A Parent's Guide to Bronchiolitis Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery

The sound of a wheezing cough can send shivers down any parent's spine. Bronchiolitis, a common respiratory infection in young children, can cause wheezing, congestion, and difficulty breathing.expand_more This blog post will equip you with the knowledge to identify bronchiolitis symptoms, understand treatment options, and ensure your little one recovers comfortably.

Symptoms to Look Out For:

Bronchiolitis often starts with a cold-like illness, including:

• Runny or stuffy noseexpand_more

• Mild fever

• Cough

Within a few days, these symptoms may worsen, and you might notice:

• Wheezing (a high-pitched whistling sound when breathing)

• Rapid breathing (more than 60 breaths per minute in infants)

• Difficulty breathing (retracted chest muscles, using extra effort to breathe)expand_more

• Poor feeding or eating

• Irritability or listlessness
  

When to See a Doctor:

If your child experiences any of the following symptoms alongside bronchiolitis, seek medical attention immediately:

• Difficulty breathing at restexclamation

• Blueish tint to the lips or skin

• Fever above 102°F (38.9°C) for an infant under 3 months

• Dehydration (infrequent urination, dry mouth, sunken eyes)

• Lethargy or excessive sleepinessexclamation
  

Treatment and Recovery:

Most cases of bronchiolitis improve on their own with home care.expand_more Here's how to help your child feel better:

• Plenty of fluids: Hydration is crucial to prevent dehydration and loosen mucus. Offer breast milk, formula, or electrolyte solutions for infants, and encourage water or diluted fruit juices for older children.expand_more

• Suction bulb or saline nasal drops: Clear your child's nasal congestion to ease breathing.

• Cool mist humidifier: Moisten the air to loosen mucus and ease coughing.expand_more

• Fever reducer: If your doctor approves, use acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) to manage fever.

Remember: Never give aspirin to children under 16.expand_more

Prevention is Key:

• Frequent handwashing: This is the best defense against respiratory viruses.

• Avoid secondhand smoke: Smoke exposure can worsen bronchiolitis symptoms.expand_more

• Limit contact with sick people: Keep your child away from anyone with a cold or other respiratory illness.
  

The 2 Sick 4 School App Can Help!

Feeling overwhelmed by childhood illnesses? The 2 Sick 4 School App is your one-stop resource for all things related to keeping your kids healthy! Download the app today (available on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/2-sick-4-school/id6470159416]) and gain peace of mind with:

• Detailed information on bronchiolitis: Learn about symptoms, causes, treatment options, and home care tips.

• Age-specific guidance: The app provides tailored information for infants, toddlers, and older children.

• Recovery timeline: Get an idea of how long symptoms typically last and when your child can return to daycare or school.

Don't panic if your child has bronchiolitis. By following these tips and using the 2 Sick 4 School App for guidance, you can help your little one recover quickly and get back to feeling their best!