An overview of bronchiolitis in babies

If there is one illness that strikes fear into parents' hearts, it is bronchiolitis in babies! It is THE childhood illness we would all rather avoid, given how alarming it can appear! It is worth noting, however, that in the vast majority of cases it remains mild. That said, being well informed about it is essential to avoid complications. Let's go through it together.

Where does bronchiolitis in babies come from and how do you identify it?

To begin with, it is important to know that bronchiolitis in infants is an acute respiratory infection of viral origin that affects the small bronchi known as bronchioles. It is contagious. And it spreads very easily from one child to another via saliva, coughing, or sneezing. Hands, toys, dummies, and comfort toys are all potential vectors of transmission.

It generally affects children under the age of two in particular. The origin of bronchiolitis is, in many cases, an inadequately treated cold occurring in a fragile baby. It is worth knowing that poorly ventilated spaces and communal living environments favour the spread of this illness.

The symptoms of bronchiolitis are fairly straightforward to identify: it often begins with a simple cold and a mild cough. This then becomes more pronounced and more frequent. Your baby may start to breathe with a wheezing sound.

Your child may also struggle to breathe and appear uncomfortable. This has an impact on their appetite and their sleep. A fever may also develop.

Bronchiolitis season

The bronchiolitis epidemic in babies is most often linked to the arrival of significant temperature changes. It is described as seasonal. It generally makes its appearance around mid-October and ends at the close of winter. It reaches a sharp peak during the month of December.

But how can you avoid it?

Even if it is difficult to predict its arrival, rest assured there are nonetheless a few habits you can adopt to avoid falling into its clutches:

• Wash the hands of anyone wishing to touch your baby. Even better if you add an alcohol-based hand gel to the routine.
• Avoid busy, enclosed spaces.
• If you have a cold, wear a mask when in contact with your baby.
• Refrain from kissing your baby on the face and hands. Opt for the back of the neck instead, for example.
• Do not overheat your home. Remember that an ambient temperature of 19 to 20°C is sufficient.
• Keep your child well hydrated.
• Air out your home as much as possible.
• Do not allow the sharing of spoons or dummies with other children.
• Finally, if your baby develops a nasopharyngeal infection, redouble your efforts on regularly rinsing their nose. At every nappy change as a minimum, and before every meal and bedtime.

How to treat bronchiolitis in babies

There is no real treatment for bronchiolitis. You will need to arm yourself with patience until your baby has fully recovered. Please note that antibiotics and cough suppressants are ineffective in the case of this illness. Of course, we strongly recommend that you consult your paediatrician, who will guide you on the course of action to take depending on how your child's condition evolves.

Do know, however, that you have a few natural remedies at your disposal — homoeopathy in particular. It can greatly help your baby to reach recovery more quickly. Do not hesitate to mention it to your doctor so that they can guide you on this matter.

Recovery time

As we have explained, although bronchiolitis is often alarming in terms of its symptoms, it generally remains mild in babies. Above all you will need to be patient and consistent in caring for your baby, as it can last between five and ten days. The cough, for its part, will gradually diminish and may persist for a further 8 to 10 days or even several weeks before disappearing entirely. Patience, patience — all things come to those who wait.