If a preemie develops bronchiolitis at 6 months of age what are the long-term effects?

Long-term effects of bronchiolitis in premature infants

Bronchiolitis is a common respiratory infection in infants and young children. It is caused by the inflammation of the bronchioles, the small airways in the lungs. Bronchiolitis can be a serious illness, especially for premature infants.

Premature infants are born with underdeveloped lungs, and they are more likely to develop bronchiolitis than full-term infants. They are also more likely to experience severe complications from bronchiolitis, such as pneumonia and respiratory failure.

The long-term effects of bronchiolitis in premature infants can include:

* Asthma: Premature infants who have bronchiolitis are more likely to develop asthma later in childhood. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.

* Recurrent respiratory infections: Premature infants who have bronchiolitis are more likely to have recurrent respiratory infections, such as pneumonia and bronchitis.

* Developmental delays: Premature infants who have bronchiolitis may experience developmental delays, such as delays in speech and motor skills.

* Chronic lung disease: Premature infants who have bronchiolitis may develop chronic lung disease, a condition that causes scarring and damage to the lungs.

The long-term effects of bronchiolitis in premature infants can vary depending on the severity of the illness and the infant's overall health. Some premature infants may experience no long-term effects, while others may experience significant health problems.

Preventing bronchiolitis in premature infants

There is no sure way to prevent bronchiolitis, but there are some things you can do to reduce your infant's risk of developing the infection:

* Wash your hands frequently.

* Avoid contact with people who are sick.

* Keep your infant's home clean and free of smoke.

* Breastfeed your infant for as long as possible.

* Get your infant vaccinated against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common cause of bronchiolitis.

If your premature infant develops bronchiolitis, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to reduce the risk of long-term complications.