Bronchiolitis in infants: meaning and care

The small airways swell and collect mucus, making it harder for an infant to move air. It often begins like a cold, then breathing may become faster or noisier. Some babies feed less because sucking, swallowing, and breathing together take more effort. Read the broader explanation of [Bronchiolitis](/conditions/bronchiolitis/).

Infants born prematurely, very young babies, and those with heart, lung, or immune problems may become unwell more quickly. The condition is different from a simple blocked nose because the lower airways are involved.

Offer smaller, more frequent feeds if the infant can manage them, and keep the baby upright while awake and supervised. Clear visible nasal mucus gently before feeds if advised. Keep the air free from cigarette smoke and vaping. Check breathing and wet nappies regularly, and do not give cough medicines or other remedies unless a clinician specifically recommends them.

Let the baby rest, but watch the effort needed to breathe rather than relying only on temperature. If feeding is becoming difficult, contact a healthcare professional for tailored advice.

Seek urgent medical help if the baby is struggling to breathe, ribs are pulling in, pauses in breathing occur, the lips look blue or grey, the baby is hard to wake, or feeds are repeatedly refused. Fewer wet nappies can signal dehydration. A very young infant with fever needs prompt medical advice because age changes the level of concern.

Ask how often to offer feeds, how to count wet nappies, which breathing changes matter, and whether the infant needs examination. Tell the clinician the baby’s age, birth history, feeding pattern, and any pauses, colour change, or unusual sleepiness.