Treatment of Bronchiolitis
Treatment of bronchiolitis focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting the child while the illness runs its course. There is no antiviral medication that cures the condition, so treatment of bronchiolitis is mostly supportive and tailored to each child’s severity of symptoms.
For mild cases, care can be given at home. Parents are advised to ensure their child gets plenty of fluids, has enough rest, and remains in a well-ventilated, smoke-free environment. Saline nasal drops and gentle suctioning can help clear blocked noses, especially before feeding or sleeping.
Fever and discomfort can be managed with paracetamol. Over-the-counter cough and cold remedies are not recommended for young children and can do more harm than good.
Keeping the child upright or slightly elevated during rest may help ease breathing. Humidified air can sometimes make breathing more comfortable, though evidence for this is limited.
In more serious cases, especially when the child is struggling to breathe or not feeding well, hospital care may be required. Treatment may include:
- Supplemental oxygen for low oxygen levels
- Nasogastric or IV fluids if the child is dehydrated
- Monitoring of breathing and heart rate
- In rare cases, mechanical ventilation
Treatment of bronchiolitis
Nebulisers, bronchodilators, and steroids are not routinely used, as studies show they offer little benefit in bronchiolitis unless the child has a pre-existing lung condition like asthma.
Antibiotics are not effective unless a bacterial co-infection is diagnosed.
The illness usually resolves on its own within 1 to 2 weeks. However, a lingering cough may persist longer. Follow-up may be advised if symptoms worsen or don’t improve.
Proper treatment of bronchiolitis includes supportive care, vigilant observation, and knowing when to seek help. Most children recover fully with no long-term effects.
[Next: Complications and Recovery from Bronchiolitis →]
