What should you know about early symptoms of bronchiolitis?

Bronchiolitis is inflammation of the small airways, most often in an infant or young child. A runny nose and mild cough may come first. Breathing can then become noisier or quicker, with the skin between the ribs pulling in during breaths. Babies may feed more slowly because breathing and sucking together is tiring. Fever can occur, but its absence does not rule out breathing trouble.

Offer smaller, more frequent feeds and keep the child upright while awake. Clear the nose gently if congestion makes feeding difficult, and check breathing, alertness, and wet nappies regularly. Keep smoke away from the child. A Child Health Consultation can assess breathing and hydration; do not give medicines or use a nebuliser unless a clinician has advised it.

Get urgent help if the child is struggling to breathe, has pauses in breathing, looks blue or grey around the lips, is unusually difficult to wake, or cannot keep feeds down. Seek prompt medical advice if feeds are much smaller, wet nappies are noticeably reduced, or the cough and wheeze are worsening.

Ask how to count breathing, what feeding amount is concerning, and which signs should prompt emergency care. Tell the clinician the child's age, birth history, medical conditions, recent feeds, wet nappies, and any change in colour or alertness.