Bronchiolitis and emergency medicine

Bronchiolitis affects the smallest airways, where swelling and mucus can increase the work of breathing. Cough, wheezing, fever, and a runny nose may occur, but the key concern is whether the child is tiring or becoming dehydrated. Babies may show difficulty through shorter feeds, pauses while sucking, fewer wet nappies, or unusual sleepiness.

Emergency teams assess breathing, oxygenation, hydration, and responsiveness. Treatment depends on what they find and may include oxygen, fluids, or other support. A nebuliser is not appropriate for every child.

If the child is struggling to breathe, keep them calm and upright while awake and supervised. Do not force food, drink, or medicine during severe breathlessness. Note when symptoms changed and take prescribed medicines or their packaging with you. Keep smoke away and follow the emergency service's instructions while travelling or waiting.

Call emergency services for blue or grey lips, breathing pauses, severe chest indrawing, grunting, collapse, or a child who is very difficult to wake. Seek urgent same-day assessment for markedly reduced feeding, fewer wet nappies, rapidly worsening wheeze, or breathing that remains hard after the child is calm. See [Nebuliser Treatment](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/nebuliser-treatment/) and [Bronchiolitis](/conditions/bronchiolitis/) for related care information.

Ask what breathing signs to watch for at home, how to support hydration, which treatment was given and why, and when a follow-up examination is needed. Confirm exactly whom to contact if symptoms return or worsen.