Bronchiolitis: symptoms, causes and which doctor to see
Bronchiolitis is inflammation of the small airways in babies under 2, most often caused by RSV. It starts with a runny nose, then cough, fast breathing and wheezing develop. Most cases get better at home; however, in young and premature babies, poor feeding and breathing difficulty may need a hospital stay.
Which doctor should I see for bronchiolitis?
For bronchiolitis you can first see: Pediatrics. If you are not sure, a family doctor can refer you to the right specialist.
What are the symptoms of bronchiolitis?
- A runny and blocked nose
- Cough
- Fast breathing
- Wheezing
- Feeding less
- Mild fever
What causes bronchiolitis?
The most common causes are listed below. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.
- 1RSV (respiratory syncytial virus)
- 2Other respiratory viruses
- 3Winter months
- 4Premature birth, heart or lung disease and exposure to cigarette smoke increase the risk
When is it an emergency? Call 112 now
- Is the baby taking less than half of their usual feeds
- Is the chest sucking in with each breath, or are the nostrils flaring
- Are there pauses in breathing or blue colouring
- Is the baby younger than 3 months
- Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up
- Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg
- Are you struggling to breathe even at rest
What you can do at home
- Clear the nose with saline; a blocked nose makes feeding harder.
- Feed small amounts often.
- Keep track of the number of wet nappies.
- Do not allow smoking in the home.
See a doctor if
- The same day for fast breathing or reduced feeding
- Call 112 immediately for pauses in breathing or blue colouring
How long does it last and how is it treated?
The illness is usually worst on days 3–5 and improves in 1–2 weeks; the cough can last longer. Treatment is supportive; if needed, oxygen and fluids are given in hospital.
Find a pediatrician in your city
Pediatricians in Turkish cities who can help with bronchiolitis.
People also describe it as
- “My baby is breathing fast”
- “My baby tested positive for RSV”
- “My baby’s chest is wheezing”
Frequently asked questions
Which doctor should I see for bronchiolitis?
For bronchiolitis you can first see: Pediatrics. If you are not sure, a family doctor (general practitioner) can assess you first and refer you to the right specialist.
What are the symptoms of bronchiolitis?
Common symptoms: a runny and blocked nose; cough; fast breathing; wheezing; feeding less; mild fever. Symptoms vary from person to person; a doctor’s examination is needed for a diagnosis.
What causes bronchiolitis?
The most common causes: rSV (respiratory syncytial virus); other respiratory viruses; winter months; premature birth, heart or lung disease and exposure to cigarette smoke increase the risk. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.
How long does bronchiolitis last and how is it treated?
The illness is usually worst on days 3–5 and improves in 1–2 weeks; the cough can last longer. Treatment is supportive; if needed, oxygen and fluids are given in hospital.
Are antibiotics needed for bronchiolitis?
Bronchiolitis is caused by a virus; antibiotics are usually not needed.
Can RSV be prevented?
Handwashing, keeping sick people away from the baby and the preventive measures your doctor recommends for at-risk babies help.
When is bronchiolitis an emergency?
If the answer to any of these questions is yes, call 112 without delay: “Is the baby taking less than half of their usual feeds?” “Is the chest sucking in with each breath, or are the nostrils flaring?” “Are there pauses in breathing or blue colouring?” “Is the baby younger than 3 months?” “Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up?” “Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg?” “Are you struggling to breathe even at rest?”
When should I see a doctor for bronchiolitis?
See a doctor: the same day for fast breathing or reduced feeding; call 112 immediately for pauses in breathing or blue colouring.
Similar complaints
Emergency numbers in Turkey
112: ambulance, emergency (free, 24/7, from any phone). 114: National Poison Information Centre. 182: appointment line for public hospitals (MHRS). Pharmacies on night duty (nöbetçi eczane) are posted on the door of every pharmacy.
Sources
This page is based on current information published by the official and independent bodies below and on our editorial principles. Last updated: . To report an error: contact us.
This page does not provide a medical diagnosis and does not replace an examination by a doctor. If you think it is an emergency, call 112 (Turkey’s free emergency number). For poisoning, call the National Poison Information Centre on 114.