What should you know about bronchiolitis obliterans?

In bronchiolitis obliterans, inflammation and scarring narrow the tiny airways. Symptoms may continue after an infection or another lung injury and can include dry cough, wheezing, reduced exercise tolerance and breathlessness. The condition is different from the common childhood illness [Bronchiolitis](/conditions/bronchiolitis/), which usually improves as the acute infection settles. Symptoms alone cannot confirm the diagnosis. A clinician may review exposures and previous illnesses, listen to the chest and arrange breathing tests or scans.

Arrange assessment for ongoing breathing symptoms rather than repeatedly treating them as a passing cold. Avoid tobacco smoke, vaping aerosols, dust and workplace fumes where possible. Keep a record of triggers, activity limits, nighttime symptoms and changes in cough. Follow the prescribed inhaler or other treatment plan and attend reviews, because symptoms can change gradually. A [Child Health Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/child-health-consultation/) may be suitable for a child with continuing symptoms.

Get emergency help for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, confusion, collapse, or difficulty speaking because of breathing. Seek same-day medical advice if wheezing or cough suddenly worsens, breathing is much faster than usual, or usual activities become difficult. A new [Fever](/symptoms/fever/) with worsening breathing also deserves prompt review. Do not wait for a routine appointment when the person is struggling to breathe.

Ask which tests are needed, what other conditions have been considered, how to use prescribed inhalers, which activities or exposures to avoid, and how symptoms will be monitored. Ask whether [Nebuliser Treatment](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/nebuliser-treatment/) has a role in this individual plan.