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This leaflet gives information to parents/ carers whose child has been
diagnosed as having bronchiolitis.
What is Bronchiolitis?
Bronchiolitis is a common respiratory condition affecting babies and young
children. It affects up to one in three babies, commonly during the winter
months (November to March) in the UK. It is caused by inflammation of the
small airways in the lungs called the bronchioles, which restricts the amount
of air able to enter the lungs, making it more difficult for your child to breathe
and feed.
Babies at greater risk of developing severe bronchchiolits include premature
babies and babies with existing medical heart or lung conditions. In most
cases it is not a severe illness; however 3% of babies who are under one year
of age and have bronchiolitis are admitted to hospital every year in the UK.
What is the cause of Bronchiolitis?
Bronchiolitis is caused by viruses. The most common virus that causes
bronchiolitis is Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and is responsible for 80%
of cases of bronchiolitis in babies and young children. Other viruses that can
cause bronchiolitis include the Adenovirus and Rhinovirus.
Can I prevent Bronchiolitis?
No. the viruses that cause bronchiolitis in babies and young children also
causes coughs and colds in older children and adults, so it is very difficult to
prevent.
What is the difference between Bronchiolitis and Bronchitis?
Bronchiolitis should not be confused with bronchitis.
Bronchitis is a condition that affects both adults and children. It occurs when
an infection causes the bronchi (the larger airways in the lungs) to become
irritated and swollen (inflamed), which causes more mucus than normal to be
produce. The body will try and get rid of the extra mucus by coughing.
Bronchiolitis is an inflammation of the smallest airways in the lungs (the
bronchioles) which also produce thick sticky mucus, making it more difficult for
babies and young children to breathe.
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Prevention
The viruses that cause bronchiolitis are very common and easily spread. It is
therefore, not possible to prevent the condition altogether, but there are some
simple steps to reduce the chances of your child getting bronchiolitis.
If your child already has bronchiolitis then these simple steps can help prevent
the infection spreading further:
Wash your hands regularly with soap and water- especially before and
after you touch your baby. Make sure siblings and visitors wash their
hands too.
Cover your childs mouth and nose when they cough or sneeze.
Try to keep away from other children and adults who have cold like
symptoms or are unwell.
Wash or wipe toys regularly to prevent the spread of germs.
Ensure your baby is kept away from tobacco smoke. Never allow
anyone to smoke around your baby.
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