What should you know about bronchiolitis therapy?

Bronchiolitis narrows the small airways through swelling and mucus. Treatment decisions therefore depend on breathing effort, oxygen level, hydration and alertness. Many children need observation and supportive measures rather than a medicine aimed at a particular germ. Antibiotics do not treat viral airway inflammation unless a clinician identifies another bacterial problem.

In a clinic or hospital, staff may clear secretions, provide fluids when drinking is not sufficient, or give breathing support when needed. A nebuliser may be considered in selected situations, but it is not suitable for every child.

Offer smaller, regular feeds, keep the child upright while awake and avoid smoke nearby. Follow the clinician’s instructions for fever comfort medicines and do not combine products without checking their ingredients. For assessment and an individual plan, arrange a [Child Health Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/child-health-consultation/).

Call emergency services for blue or grey lips, breathing pauses, severe chest pulling, extreme sleepiness or inability to drink. Seek prompt medical review if breathing becomes harder, feeds fall substantially, wet nappies decrease or the child is getting worse. Read more about [Bronchiolitis](/conditions/bronchiolitis/).

Ask what the examination showed, how hydration will be watched, which home measures are appropriate and when review is needed. Ask whether [Nebuliser Treatment](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/nebuliser-treatment/) is indicated and what response to expect.