Bronchiolitis
Content provided by Healthwise
Bronchiolitis
Bronchiolitis is an inflammation of the small air passages (bronchioles), usually caused by a virus (respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is one such virus). Bronchiolitis usually affects children under the age of 2 years. It is the leading cause of serious lower respiratory illness in infants.
Symptoms of bronchiolitis include labored, rapid breathing with wheezing and a "tight"-sounding cough. If the infection becomes severe, the infant's breathing rate may increase noticeably. If severe difficulty breathing occurs, immediate medical attention is needed.
Credits
| Author | Debby Golonka, MPH |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Mark A. Rasmus, MD - Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine |
| Last Updated | July 11, 2008 |
| Last updated: | July 11, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Debby Golonka, MPH |
| Reviewed By: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Mark A. Rasmus, MD - Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
