What should you know about bronchiolitis signs and symptoms in infants?

The illness often begins like a cold, then breathing can become noisier or more effortful as the small airways swell and collect mucus. An infant may take shorter feeds, stop to breathe, vomit after coughing or have fewer wet nappies. Some babies breathe faster, flare their nostrils or pull in around the ribs. These signs describe how the condition can present; they do not mean every blocked nose or cough is bronchiolitis.

Infants cannot explain breathlessness, so compare their feeding, sleep, colour and responsiveness with their usual pattern. Very young babies and infants with underlying health problems need a lower threshold for medical advice.

Hold the infant upright when awake and offer smaller feeds more often. Keep the nose clear of visible mucus with gentle measures advised by a clinician, and keep the air free of cigarette smoke. Check breathing and wet nappies regularly, including during the night. A [Child Health Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/child-health-consultation/) can provide an examination and monitoring plan.

Get emergency help if the infant turns blue or grey, stops breathing, has repeated pauses, is limp or difficult to wake, or is working hard to breathe. Seek prompt assessment if the infant cannot maintain feeds, has clearly fewer wet nappies, or breathing is becoming faster or more difficult. Read the general overview of [Bronchiolitis](/conditions/bronchiolitis/).

Ask how much feeding is enough for this infant, how to count concerning breathing changes, and when to return for review. Ask before using medicines or a [Nebuliser Treatment](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/nebuliser-treatment/).