How is bronchiolitis treated?

Bronchiolitis causes swelling and mucus in the small airways, commonly after a viral infection such as respiratory syncytial virus infection. Most treatment is aimed at helping a child breathe comfortably while the illness settles. Antibiotics do not treat a viral cause, and cough medicines should not be given to a young child unless a clinician specifically advises them.

A clinician may check breathing effort, oxygen level, hydration and feeding. In hospital, oxygen or fluids may be needed when a child cannot maintain oxygen levels or take enough milk. A nebuliser is not routinely helpful for every child, but a clinician may use inhaled treatment in selected circumstances.

Offer smaller, more frequent feeds and keep the child upright while awake and supervised. Clear the nose gently if congestion makes feeding harder, and check the child regularly, including during sleep. Keep smoke and strong fragrances away from the child. Record wet nappies and note whether breathing, feeding or alertness is changing.

Cough, fever and wheezing can accompany bronchiolitis. The pattern and severity matter more than one symptom alone, so arrange a child health consultation if you are unsure how your child is coping.

Seek urgent medical help if the child is struggling to breathe, has pauses in breathing, looks blue or grey around the lips, is unusually floppy or difficult to wake, or is taking very little fluid. Get prompt advice if feeds are repeatedly much smaller, wet nappies decrease, or symptoms are worsening.

Ask how often to offer feeds, how to count wet nappies, which breathing changes require emergency help, and whether your child needs an oxygen check. Ask when the child can return to nursery and how to reduce spread to vulnerable family members.