Bronchiolitis
Diagnosing bronchiolitis
Source: NHS
In this topic (7)
Contactyour GP if your child has symptoms of bronchiolitis . A diagnosis isusually based on the symptoms and an examination of your child's breathing.
Your GP will ask about your child's symptoms for example, whether they've had a runny nose, Cough or high temperature (fever) and for how long.
They'll also listen to your child's breathing using a stethoscope, to check for any crackling or high-pitched wheezing as your child breathes in and out.
If your child hasn't been feeding very well or has been vomiting, your GP may also look for signs of dehydration , which include:
- a dipped fontanelle (the soft spot on the top of the head) in babies
- dry mouth and skin
- drowsiness
- producing little or no urine
Your GP may recommend that your child is admitted to hospital if they aren't feeding properly and are dehydrated, or they're having problems breathing.
Further tests
Further tests for bronchiolitis aren't usually necessary. However, as some conditions cause similar symptoms to bronchiolitis, such as cystic fibrosis and asthma , tests may be needed.
If it isn't clear what's causing your child's symptoms, or your child has signs of severe bronchiolitis , your GP may recommend further tests in hospital to help confirm the diagnosis.
These tests might include:
- a mucus sample test a sample of mucus from your child's nose will be testedto identify the virus causing their bronchiolitis
- urine or blood tests
- a pulse oximeter test a small electronic device is clipped to your child's finger or toe to measure the oxygen in their blood
Articles for Bronchiolitis
Causes of bronchiolitis
Bronchiolitis is almost always caused by a viral infection. In most cases, the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is responsible.
Complications of bronchiolitis
If your child develops complications from bronchiolitis, it's likely that they'll need hospital treatment.
Diagnosing bronchiolitis
Contact your GP if your child has symptoms of bronchiolitis. A diagnosis is usually based on the symptoms and an examination of your child's breathing.
Introduction
Bronchiolitis is a common lower respiratory tract infection that affects babies and young children under two years old.
Preventing bronchiolitis
The virus that causes bronchiolitis is very common and easily spread, so it's impossible to completely prevent it.
Symptoms of bronchiolitis
Most children with bronchiolitis have mild symptoms and recover within two to three weeks, but it's important to look out for signs of more serious problems, such as breathing difficulties.
Treating bronchiolitis
In most cases, bronchiolitis is mild and gets better without needing treatment within two to three weeks.
