Introduction
Your baby has bronchiolitis. It can be a frightening experience supporting your baby with difficulty in breathing, so we have provided you with this leaflet to explain bronchiolitis to you. If you have any questions or if there is anything you do not understand about this leaflet, please contact:
Children’s Assessment Unit on 02476 865 631
George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust switchboard number: 02476 351 351
What is bronchiolitis?
Bronchiolitis is a viral chest infection usually occurring in the winter months. It is common in babies up until the age of one year, however it is more common in babies under six months of age. Bronchiolitis can be caused by a number of viruses, but the most common one is Respiratory Syncytial Virus known as RSV. While most cases are mild, it can be serious in very young babies. Bronchiolitis is caused by viruses that infect the small airways of the lungs, which cause them to become blocked with sticky mucus. This can make it more difficult for your baby to breathe.
How long does bronchiolitis last and what are the symptoms?
Bronchiolitis usually starts with a cold, giving your baby a runny nose, red eyes, a sore throat, and fever. Your baby usually develops a cough/wheeze lasting up to 5 days, difficulty breathing and problems with feeding and/or sleeping. Your baby should steadily improve over 7 to 10 days. Most babies can be cared for at home by yourself. If you are worried about your baby’s progress, discuss this with
your GP or health visitor.
Can I prevent bronchiolitis from re-occurring?
No. The viruses that cause bronchiolitis in babies also cause coughs and
colds in older children and adults. Some children get bronchiolitis more than once, and it is not preventable. All you can do it support your baby through this difficult time and seek help when needed.
What is the Treatment?
Most children get better without any treatment. Antibiotics do not help and are not given. This is because bronchiolitis is caused by viruses and antibiotics only kill bacteria. The viruses are infectious and can be passed onto other babies. Encourage your baby to feed and monitor their breathing at home seeking help if needed.
What should I do now?
Keep your child home from childcare until their symptoms resolve. Do not smoke cigarettes near your baby. Children who are exposed to cigarette smoke before or after they are born have a much higher chance of getting chest illnesses such as bronchiolitis, asthma, croup, and pneumonia. Allow your baby to get plenty of rest and give plenty of fluids. They may get tired while feeding so be prepared to offer smaller amounts of milk more often or give more frequent breastfeeds.
When should I seek medical advice?
- Your baby has trouble breathing, is breathing very fast or irregularly.
- Your baby refuses to eat or drink or has fewer wet nappies than normal.
- Bronchiolitis is often a mild illness but can get worse quickly.
- Babies who were premature or have known heart and lung problems are known to be at increased risk – seek immediate help if you are concerned.
Dial 999 for an ambulance in any of these cases:
- Your baby is having a lot of difficulty breathing and is pale or sweaty.
- Your baby’s tongue and lips are turning blue.
- There are long pauses in your baby’s breathing.
For further advice/information:
Call NHS 111 (24 hours a day)
Contact your GP/ Health Visitor
George Eliot Hospital is a smoke free environment. For help and advice to stop smoking you can call the national helpline on 0300 123 1044 or visit https://
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