What are the treatment options for bronchiolitis?

Bronchiolitis is a viral infection that makes the small airways swell and fill with mucus, most often in babies and young children. A Child Health Consultation checks breathing effort, feeding, hydration, alertness, and oxygen level. Antibiotics do not treat the usual viral cause. Cough and noisy breathing can take time to settle even after the child begins to improve.

Offer smaller, more frequent feeds and keep the child upright while awake and supervised. Clear visible nasal mucus gently before feeds and rest. Avoid tobacco smoke and do not give cough medicines unless a clinician specifically advises them. A Nebuliser Treatment or oxygen may be considered in a clinical setting when breathing support is needed; it is not a substitute for urgent assessment.

Call emergency services if the child has pauses in breathing, blue or grey lips, severe chest pulling-in, grunting, unusual limpness, or is difficult to wake. Seek same-day medical advice if feeds are much smaller, wet nappies are reduced, breathing is becoming faster or harder, or the child is under three months with a fever. Trust a clear deterioration even if earlier symptoms seemed mild.

Ask how much your child should drink, which breathing changes matter, how to count wet nappies, whether monitoring is needed, and when to return for review.