Bronchiolitis - in babies

Bronchiolitis - in babies

Bronchiolitis is an infection of the small airways of the lung caused by a virus.

It is a common condition in babies and toddlers particularly in the winter months.

Most affected children are not seriously ill and make a full recovery. Sometimes it becomes more serious and hospital care may be needed.

What are the symptoms of bronchiolitis?

Bronchiolitis usually starts with a runny nose, cough and fever. Sometimes fast breathing and wheezing may develop. Often babies have difficulty feeding. Usually babies are at their worst, a few days after becoming unwell and improve over 1 to 2 weeks. A cough can linger a bit longer in some cases.

What is the treatment for bronchiolitis?

Bronchiolitis doesn’t need any specific treatment; it will get better by itself. It is caused by a virus which means antibiotics can’t help. Cough medicines are usually unhelpful. Most babies can be cared for at home, but a few will need to stay in hospital for oxygen or tube feeding.

How can I help my baby recover?

Your baby may become tired while feeding. Offer smaller amounts of formula or shorter breast feeds, more often. It is very important not to smoke around your baby. Smoking outside can affect your baby’s breathing as smoke can stay on clothing for several hours. If your baby has a fever and is miserable, you can give them paracetamol or ibuprofen.

Bronchiolitis can be passed on to other young children. If possible keep your child away from other young children.

What if my child becomes more unwell?

You should see your GP as soon as possible, or return to the Emergency Department - or if very worried call 999- If your bay develops any of the following :

  • increasing breathlessness: you may notice your baby breathing faster or their tummy sucking in under their ribs
  • a high temperature despite regular paracetamol or ibuprofen
  • increasing sleepiness or drowsiness
  • changes in their skin colour such as blue or grey tinges to their skin or lips
  • taking less than half of their normal feeds
  • no wet nappy for more than 8 hours

Reviewed by Dr A Taylor in February 2023, next review in February 2025. 

Share this page

QR code for this page

If you need this information in an alternative format, please contact the Patient Experience and Engagement Team on 01226 434922.

Nëse ju nevojitet ky informacion në një format të ndryshëm, ju lutemi të kontaktoni ekipin e Eksperiencës së Pacientit dhe të Angazhimit në:01226 434922.

Если вам нужна эта информация в другом формате, пожалуйста, свяжитесь с отделом по работе с пациентами и взаимодействию с ними по тел: 01226 434922.

Jeśli te informacje są wymagane w innej formie, prosimy skontaktować się z Zespołem ds. doświadczenia i zaangażowania pacjenta na numer: 01226 434922.

Dacă aveți nevoie de aceste informații într-un format alternativ, vă rugăm să contactați echipa care se ocupă de experienţele şi angajamentul pacientului la nr: 01226 434922.

Ha erre az információra alternatív formátumban van szüksége, kérjük, lépjen kapcsolatba a Patient Experience and Engagement Teammel (Betegélmény és elkötelezettség csoport) a következő telefonszámon: 01226 434922.


Source URL: https://www.barnsleyhospital.nhs.uk/services/a-and-e/bronchiolitis

List of links present in page
  1. https://www.barnsleyhospital.nhs.uk/services/a-and-e/bronchiolitis
  2. tel:01226434922
  3. tel:01226434922
  4. tel:01226434922
  5. tel:01226434922
  6. tel:01226434922
  7. tel:01226434922