Peoria Standard

Bronchiolitis, an infection of the small airways in the lungs, is becoming more common as colder weather arrives, according to Dr. Awad Alyami, a pediatrician at OSF HealthCare. The illness primarily affects children under two years old but can also impact babies born prematurely or those with chronic lung disease, heart conditions present at birth, or immune system deficiencies.

“When they become infected, there is a lot of mucus. It makes it harder to breathe,” Dr. Alyami explains.

Common symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough, and dehydration. Bronchiolitis spreads easily through respiratory droplets from coughing and is particularly prevalent among children who attend day care or are exposed to smoke.

“There are also environmental risk factors, like babies who are exposed to smoke and babies who attend day care,” Dr. Alyami adds. Attending day care will expose a child to illnesses regardless of cleanliness.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is identified as the most frequent cause of bronchiolitis, though other viruses such as influenza and COVID-19 may also lead to the illness.

“You need to see a doctor if your baby has trouble breathing at any time,” Dr. Alyami advises. “Or if your baby is younger than three months and they have a fever. Or if they are older than three months and they have a fever for more than three days. Or if the child has signs of dehydration, like if they are making fewer wet diapers than normal.”

There is no specific test for bronchiolitis itself; however, healthcare providers might perform nasal swabs for other viruses or conduct chest x-rays when necessary.

Treatment mainly focuses on comfort measures until symptoms improve.

“One of the most important things is nose suction as needed,” Dr. Alyami says. “When we suction the nose and keep it clean, it’s easier to breathe.”

He recommends using bulb suction devices and nasal sprays or drops available in retail stores to clear mucus from the nose. A humidifier can help if indoor air is dry, while over-the-counter medications can reduce fever and fluids should be consumed to prevent dehydration.

“Typically, day three to day five are the peak of symptoms,” Dr. Alyami says. “After five days, they start to improve. Symptoms can last seven to 14 days. And typically, the cough lingers for a little longer.”

Severe cases may require hospitalization where oxygen support or rarely intubation may be needed.

For prevention during peak respiratory illness seasons in fall and winter, Dr. Alyami encourages regular handwashing and staying home when sick.

Dr. Alyami adds that since RSV is the main cause of bronchiolitis, you should look into the RSV vaccine this season if eligible groups such as infants, pregnant women or older adults apply in your family situation.

Related stories about bronchiolitis in children and health advice during holidays can offer additional information.