Ready Reference Of Bronchiolitis.

[CilmiSabca]

BRONCIOLITIS.
(inflammation of the smaller branches of the bronchial tree).
SEASON:
Respiratory synctial viruses (RSV), winter and spring; parainfluenza viruses (PIV), summer and fall.
SUSCEPTIBILITY:
Greatest in those under 2 years, especially under 6 months, or with a family history of allergy.
SYMPTOMS:
1. Cold symptomic.
2. A few days later: Rapid, shallow breathing; wheezing or breathing out; low-grade fever for about 3 days. Sometimes: Chest does not seem to expand with breathing in; pale or bluish color.
CAUSE:
Various viruses, most often RSV or PIV; rarely, bacteria.
TRANSMISSION:
Usually via respiratory secretions by direct contact or on household objects.
INCUBATION:
Varies with causative organism; usually 2 to 8 days.
DURATION:
Acute phase may last only 3 days; cough from 1 to 3 weeks or more.
TREATMENT:
CALL THE DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY OR GO TO THE ER if doctor can't be reached.
Hospitalization; possibly, antiviral drug.
DIET:
If food can be taken by mouth, frequent small meals.
PREVENTION:
NO vaccine available; avoid exposure of infant with a family history of respiratory allergy.
RECURRENCE:
Can recur, but symptoms may be milder.
COMPLICATIONS:
Heart failure; bronchial asthma.
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More about this disease, contact baby's physician.