Bronchitis in Children: What Every Parent Needs to Know
Each year, bronchitis in children affects millions of infants, toddlers, and adolescents. While the condition is not life threatening, repeated occurrences of bronchitis in children can point to a more serious cause for concern. Understanding bronchitis and its symptoms can help caregivers to make an informed decision when seeking the help of a physician.
What Is Bronchitis?
Bronchitis in children is an inflammatory condition of the lungs and bronchial tubes. Most commonly developed during viral illness, bronchitis can also be caused by non-infectious triggers. Breathing in second hand smoke or other chemical impurities such as cleaning products and dust can frequently prompt occasional or repeated bouts of bronchitis. According to the Mayo Clinic, some cases of bronchitis occur as a result of GERD or gastro esophageal reflux disease.
What Are The Symptoms Of Bronchitis In Children?
While there are two types of bronchitis; acute and chronic, symptoms for both are similar for adults and children alike. Acute bronchitis consists of occasional occurrences typically brought on by viruses or environmental pollution. Over time, repeated inflammation can cause scarring of the bronchial tubes and an overproduction of mucus within their lining leading to a diagnosis of chronic bronchitis. The following are indicators for both conditions:
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Excessive tiredness or weakness - Coughing and minor chest irritation
- Producing clear, white, green, or yellow/gray mucus
- Low grade fever accompanied by chills
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
For chronic bronchitis in children, the above indicators are present; but cough will worsen upon waking or when the environment around them is overly wet. Another sign that a child may be suffering from chronic bronchitis is that he or she may experience respiratory infections more frequently than other children.
What to Do If You Suspect Your Child Has Bronchitis
Although bronchitis can become a serious issue, most cases reported are generally mild and last only a few days. Typically, if your child exhibits signs of bronchitis he or she will usually begin showing improvement within 3 to 4 days without any intervention. During this time, caregivers may administer over the counter medications for reducing fever and limiting discomfort. It is important to note, however; that if your child is under the age of 6 be sure to ask your pediatrician about dosing information.
To better assist your child through this time, be sure to allow them plenty of rest and encourage warm liquids to drink. As with other over the counter medicines, a children’s cough suppressant may also be given under proper dosing.
What to Do If Your Child Doesn’t Improve
If your child fails to improve after 4 days or the condition worsens, a trip to the pediatrician may be in order. If your child has any of the following warning signs, seek professional council immediately as they can address the issue at hand:
- Bloody or oddly discolored mucus.
- A fever over 101°F for more than 3 days that does not lessen with an over the counter fever reducer.
- If conditions such as asthma or emphysema are already present.
As a caregiver, keeping your child healthy is a high priority. Once you suspect bronchitis, don’t panic. As stated earlier, bronchitis in children is often short lived and usually retreats on its own. With an overabundance of antibiotics administered every day, there is little reason to rush to the emergency room. However, if you feel that your child is truly ill, in danger, or simply feels too miserable; there is no shame in seeking professional help. As always, you are the best defense for your little one and should always trust your instincts.