Bronchiolitis is a condition of the bronchioles, the small airways in the lungs. It is an inflammation of these bronchioles generally caused by viral infections such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Bronchiolitis can be serious in infants, though in children and adults it is generally a milder condition. When it is severe in children and adults, however, it can lead to hospitalization. In fact, each year in the U.S. many hospitalizations occur due to bronchiolitis.
Bronchiolitis is generally more dangerous in infants because their bronchioles are already so narrow. The tightening caused by bronchiolitis can close off the airways altogether and be potentially fatal.
Generally, although this condition can be so serious, it passes within a week to 10 days. Symptoms are present for even fewer days. So recovery is rapid and generally leaves no lingering effects.
While RSV is a major contributor to most cases of bronchiolitis, exposure of a child to a parent’s smoking can also cause it. The cold and flu season, or the cold weather months, are when most cases of bronchiolitis occur. Any suspected cases, especially in infants, should be examined by a physician immediately.
Information on this page is for reference and educational purposes only. For more information about bronchiolitis, talk to your doctor or primary care provider.
Scott joined American Medical Sales and Rentals in 2008 as a Web Manager and Content Writer. He is a writer and designer. He is extensively trained on oxygen therapy products from leading manufacturers such as Inogen, Respironics, Chart, Invacare, ResMed and more.
Scott works closely with respiratory therapists and oxygen specialists to educate the community about oxygen therapy products, COPD, asthma and lung diseases. He writes weekly columns and is passionate about educating the community on oxygen therapy and respiratory issues.
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Scott Ridlhttps://www.oxygenconcentratorstore.com/blog/author/scott/
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Scott Ridlhttps://www.oxygenconcentratorstore.com/blog/author/scott/
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Scott Ridlhttps://www.oxygenconcentratorstore.com/blog/author/scott/
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Scott Ridlhttps://www.oxygenconcentratorstore.com/blog/author/scott/
