Bronchiolitis (Child)

The illness begins as a cold, leading to cough and breathlessness. This may interfere with feeding and sleep. Babies with bronchiolitis are usually sick for three to five days and gradually recover over the next three days. However, the cough may persist for two to three weeks.

Bring your child to the doctor if he/she:

• Has difficulty breathing
• Is unable to sleep due to cough or breathing difficulty
• Appears lethargic
• Is easily irritable and difficult to calm down
• Is not feeding or taking fluids well
• Has not wet the diapers in the last six to eight hours and his/her lips are dry
• Has pale or greyish skin colour (late sign)

Caring for your child upon discharge from hospital

• Use medications as directed by your doctor
• Clear your child's nose of mucus regularly
• Laying your child on his/her back with the cot angled upwards at 30° to 45° or on the side may help him/her to breathe easier
• Avoid exposure to smoke
• Wash your hands frequently, especially after handling your child
• Seek medical care if there are persistent symptoms after one week