ACUTE BRONCHIOLITIS Signs that indicate the need for urgent medical consultation for Children

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Acute bronchiolitis, a respiratory condition that particularly affects young children, is becoming more common in the United States and Europe. In Romania, 80% of the beds in the pediatric wards are already occupied, a sign that this health problem is becoming more widespread. For many parents, knowing when to seek emergency medical attention for bronchiolitis symptoms can be a challenge.

Bronchiolitis is a seasonal viral infection characterized by inflammation of the bronchioles, the smaller airways that carry air to the lungs, and it especially affects children under 2 years of age.

Here’s what parents need to know about the symptoms that indicate the need for emergency medical consultation for young children:

Altered general condition, accompanied by high fever, apathy and drowsiness.

Apnea attacks, i.e. stopping breathing for short periods of time.

Cyanosis, which manifests itself by changing the color of the skin in shades of blue around the mouth or in the extremities, a sign of a possible lack of oxygen in the blood.

Difficulty breathing, often accompanied by wheezing.

Difficulty exhaling, caused by the child’s inability to remove air from the lungs.

Increased respiratory rate, greater than 60-80 breaths per minute.

Dehydration, caused by the child’s difficulty in swallowing liquids due to fever and strong cough.

It is important to note that if these symptoms occur in an infant younger than 3 months, a premature baby or a child with other pre-existing conditions such as congenital heart defects or chronic diseases, emergency medical consultation becomes imperative.

In case of respiratory failure or other severe symptoms, hospitalization for treatment and medical monitoring may be necessary.

Bronchiolitis is generally caused by the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), which is spread through saliva droplets and direct contact with contaminated hands. That is why it is essential to pay special attention to hand hygiene and to avoid exposure to sick people, especially in the case of small children and those at high risk of complications.

In conclusion, careful monitoring of symptoms and prompt action in case of alarming signs can contribute to effective management of bronchiolitis and prevention of severe complications.