Bronchiolitis and vaping: what to know

Bronchiolitis is inflammation and swelling in the smallest breathing tubes, usually during a viral illness in an infant or young child. Inhaled vapour, smoke, and scented aerosols can add irritation, coughing, or wheezing. Vaping is not a recognised treatment for bronchiolitis, and a child should not be given a vape or exposed to someone else's exhaled vapour.

Symptoms may include a runny nose followed by cough, faster breathing, reduced feeding, or noisy breathing. See [Bronchiolitis](/conditions/bronchiolitis/) and [Wheezing](/symptoms/wheezing/) for related explanations.

Move the child away from vapour and cigarette smoke, ventilate the room, and keep the child upright while awake. Offer small, frequent feeds or drinks if they can swallow comfortably. Clear nasal mucus gently before feeds and sleep. Do not use a vape, essential-oil vapour, or unprescribed inhaler as a home remedy. A clinician may decide whether an assessment or supportive treatment such as [Nebuliser Treatment](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/nebuliser-treatment/) is appropriate.

Get urgent help if breathing is hard or pauses, the ribs pull in with each breath, the lips look blue or grey, the child is unusually sleepy, or feeding is much less than usual. Arrange prompt medical review for persistent wheezing, worsening cough, or concern after a vaping exposure. A [Child Health Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/child-health-consultation/) can help assess breathing and hydration.

Ask whether the breathing pattern fits bronchiolitis, how to monitor feeds and wet nappies, and which symptoms should prompt emergency care. Mention what was inhaled, when exposure happened, and whether anyone vapes in the home.