About Bronchitis Symptoms & Treatment in Children

Bronchitis is a respiratory infection that causes the bronchial tubes to become irritated and inflamed. It can easily be mistaken for a chest Cold or Pneumonia since the symptoms can be quite similar. This ailment can be caused by a number of factors, including indoor air pollution. Children, however, can contract Bronchitis by getting a contagious virus or bacteria. Your child's pediatrician can correctly diagnose the ailment and prescribe the proper treatment.

Things You'll Need

• Appointment With Your Child's Pediatrician Prescription or Over-the-Counter Medications Humidifier or Vaporizer Beverages (to avoid dehydration) Facial Tissues Plenty of Antibacterial Soap and Water

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Instructions

• 1

  The common symptoms of Bronchitis in children are runny noses, sore throats and low-grade fevers. They may also experience fatigue and chills. There's usually a dry cough at the onset of the ailment. This cough then turns into a productive cough as mucus develops in the lungs. Children may also wheeze and feel tightness in their chests with Bronchitis.

• 2

  Over-the-counter medications such as cough syrup, operating a humidifier in the house, or a vaporizer in their bedroom can help children breathe (and sleep) easier. Children should drink plenty of beverages so they don't become hydrated. If they experience much difficulty breathing, consult a doctor immediately!

• 3

  If a child doesn't begin to feel better in a few days, or feels worse, you should call her pediatrician. An examination by a pediatrician can determine whether the child has Bronchitis or not. If the ailment is caused by bacteria, a doctor can prescribe antibiotics. If a virus is the cause of the Bronchitis, only the symptoms can be treated. Besides prescription or over-the-counter cough medications, children with Bronchitis need plenty of rest, plenty of beverages, and steam added to the household air.

• 4

  Since Bronchitis can be extremely contagious, every member of the household, especially any children who have it, should wash their hands often using antibacterial soap and water. This practice will help kill germs and reduce the risk of spreading the Bronchitis.