Medicines for fever or cough may also help.Īntibiotics are not needed, unless the cause is a bacterial infection. It may include plenty of rest and fluids. In children, the most common cause of acute bronchitis is a virus.Ī cough, fever, runny nose, and body aches are common symptoms. Acute bronchitis means that the symptoms often develop quickly and don’t last long. Key points about acute bronchitis in childrenīronchitis is an inflammation of the large breathing tubes (bronchi) in the lungs. When should I call my child’s healthcare provider?Ĭall your child’s healthcare provider right away if your child’s symptoms get worse, if new symptoms develop, or if he or she has: Make sure your child washes his or her hands often.Ĭheck that your child is up-to-date on all vaccines, including the yearly flu shot. Teach your child to cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. You can help prevent acute bronchitis by stopping the spread of viruses that may lead to it. How can I help prevent acute bronchitis in my child? Most children who have acute bronchitis will get better without any problems. What are possible complications of acute bronchitis in a child? It most often affects the brain and the liver. This is a rare but very serious disorder. Taking aspirin can put your child at risk for Reye syndrome. That can make the cough worse.ĭon’t give aspirin or medicine that contains aspirin to a child younger than age 19 unless directed by your child’s provider. In most cases, also don’t give antihistamines. For children between ages 4 and 6, only use over-the-counter products when recommended by your child's healthcare provider. The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend giving these medicines to children younger than 4 years old because they may cause harmful side effects. Talk with your child’s healthcare provider before giving over-the-counter cough and cold medicine to your child. Treatment may include:Īcetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and mild painĬough medicine for children over 4 years oldĬool-mist humidifier in your child’s room The goal of treatment is to help ease symptoms. Even children who have been coughing for longer than 8 to 10 days often don't need antibiotics. That’s because most of the infections are caused by viruses. In nearly all cases, antibiotics should not be used to treat acute bronchitis. It will also depend on how severe the condition is. Treatment will depend on your child’s symptoms, age, and general health. How is acute bronchitis treated in a child? These tests can find the germ causing an infection. The sensor is painless and the red light does not get hot. When the device is on, a small red light can be seen in the sensor. For this test, the healthcare provider puts a small sensor (like a clip) on your child's finger or toe. An oximeter is a small device that measures the amount of oxygen in the blood. This test makes images of internal tissues, bones, and organs. In some cases, your child may need tests to rule out other health problems, such as pneumonia or asthma. Your child’s healthcare provider can often diagnose acute bronchitis with a health history and physical exam. How is acute bronchitis diagnosed in a child? Make sure your child sees his or her healthcare provider for a diagnosis. These symptoms may look like other health problems. But the cough may continue for 3 to 4 weeks. What are the symptoms of acute bronchitis in a child?Īn overall body discomfort or not feeling well Which children are at risk for acute bronchitis?Ĭhildren who have a higher chance of developing acute bronchitis are those who have: Such illnesses can spread easily from direct contact with a person who is sick. The illness may develop after a cold or other viral infection in the nose, mouth, or throat (upper respiratory tract). In children, the most common cause of acute bronchitis is a virus. It may also be caused by bacteria or things such as dust, allergens, strong fumes, or tobacco smoke. What causes acute bronchitis in a child?Īcute bronchitis is most often caused by a viral infection. The illness can be short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic). Acute Bronchitis in Children What is acute bronchitis in children?īronchitis is an inflammation of the large breathing tubes (bronchi) in the lungs.
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