Bronchiolitis in children: recognize the warning signs and know when to seek hospital

Bronchiolitis is a respiratory infection that mainly affects newborns and children under two years of age. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes 75% of cases of the disease, making it one of the main threats to the respiratory tract in this age group. Inflammation of the bronchioles, small branches of the bronchi, causes an accumulation of mucus that makes it difficult for oxygen to pass into the blood. Especialistas warn that mortality is higher in babies up to two years of age, requiring extra attention from parents.

Como the virus affects the respiratory system

RSV multiplies in the cells of the upper respiratory tract, starting with the nose, pharynx and larynx. Conforme the infection progresses, the virus descends through the lower airways, inflaming the bronchi and bronchioles. Esse process generates accumulation of secretion that obstructs the passage of air in the pulmonary alveoli, where gas exchange essential for breathing occurs.

In young children, the airways are naturally narrower than in adults. Essa anatomical feature amplifies symptoms when there is inflammation, making each breath more difficult. The accumulated mucus causes the characteristic wheezing, a sign that worries many parents and indicates the need for medical evaluation.

Reconhecendo initial and progressive symptoms

Nos In the first few days after infection, the child has a fever and runny nose, symptoms that may resemble a common cold. Após four or five days, the disease progresses to the lower airways, causing wheezing, persistent cough, excessive tiredness and shortness of breath. The cough can be so intense that it causes vomiting and dehydration, leading to the need for intravenous hydration in many cases.

Lack of appetite is common during bronchiolitis, further complicating recovery. Pais should be alert to any worsening of respiratory symptoms, as the condition can worsen quickly in very young babies.

Sinais alert requiring immediate hospital visit

Breathing difficulty in babies can be difficult to identify, but there are clear signs that indicate the need for urgent hospital care. Observe if the chest sinks while the belly expands during breathing, an abnormal pattern that shows overexertion. Outro An important indicator is the movement of the sides of the nose, which move significantly when the child tries to inhale air with difficulty.

• The chest sinks and the belly expands when the child breathes.
• The sides of the nose move due to the great effort to inhale.
• The wishbone, a bone located in the front of the neck, sinks noticeably with each breath.

Esses signs indicate that the baby is struggling to breathe and requires immediate medical intervention. Crianças breastfed children under two years of age present more aggressive conditions, increasing the risk of serious complications.

Tratamento and medical approach

Bronchiolitis is treated as symptoms appear. Para fever, antipyretics are used; for runny nose, regular nasal washing is recommended. If the infection progresses to the lower airways, the doctor assesses the need for hospitalization considering the child’s age and possible comorbidities. Antibióticos and corticosteroids are only prescribed when there is an associated bacterial infection, a situation that occurs frequently.

Cada case requires individual assessment by a qualified professional. Self-medication is dangerous and can delay the correct diagnosis, worsening the prognosis. Pais should always seek medical advice before starting any treatment.

Medidas effective prevention

The best way to prevent bronchiolitis is to maintain strict hand hygiene and use alcohol gel regularly. Well-ventilated Ambientess reduce the concentration of viruses in the air. Nasal washing is also recommended as a preventive measure, especially during periods of RSV circulation.

Embora There is no specific vaccine for RSV, flu vaccination is essential. In 30% of bronchiolitis cases there is associated infection with influenza A or B, H1N1, metapneumovirus or rhinovirus. Crianças patients should not attend school to avoid contaminating classmates. Adultos with respiratory symptoms must work remotely or wear a mask if in-person work is unavoidable, keeping the environment open and constantly using alcohol gel.