What should you know about respiratory bronchiolitis?

Swelling and mucus narrow the small air passages, so air moves less freely. A child may develop a runny nose, [Cough](/symptoms/cough/), [Fever](/symptoms/fever/), noisy breathing, or [Wheezing](/symptoms/wheezing/). Breathing may become faster, with the skin pulling in between or below the ribs. Symptoms can change over the course of an illness, which is why appearance, feeding, wet nappies, and breathing effort matter.

Bronchiolitis is different from a simple blocked nose because the lower airways are involved. A clinician can listen to the chest, assess hydration and oxygen levels, and decide whether another illness needs consideration.

Offer smaller, more frequent feeds if the child tires during feeding, keep them upright while awake, and clear nasal mucus gently when it interferes with breathing or feeding. Keep the environment smoke-free and check the child regularly, including during sleep. Use medicines only as directed for the child’s age and situation.

Some children need assessment or oxygen support in hospital. A [Child Health Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/child-health-consultation/) can provide an examination, while [Nebuliser Treatment](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/nebuliser-treatment/) may be considered by clinicians in selected circumstances; it is not a substitute for urgent assessment.

Get emergency help if the child has pauses in breathing, blue or grey lips, severe chest pulling, grunting, marked drowsiness, or cannot drink. Seek prompt medical advice if feeds are much smaller, wet nappies are reduced, breathing is steadily worsening, or the child is unusually difficult to settle. Babies who are very young or have heart, lung, or immune problems may need earlier review.

Ask how to count breathing effort, which feeding changes are concerning, and how often to check the child overnight. Clarify which medicines are appropriate, whether follow-up is needed, and which signs mean you should go directly to emergency care.