About Bronchitis in Toddlers

Bronchitis in a toddler can be a scary thing. It occurs when the bronchi, which are the large air passages to the lungs, become infected or blocked with mucous. It can be the effect of a previous cold or ear infection, or it may come on its own. Wherever it comes from, though, it may include a heavy, productive cough, a fever, a sore throat and fatigue.

Types

• Bronchitis can be caused from a virus or bacteria. If it's viral, then antibiotics won't help.

Considerations

• If the symptoms of bronchitis last for 3 or more months, it may be considered chronic. Chronic bronchitis may be caused by allergies or exposure to irritants, such as cigarette smoke.

Treatment

• To treat bronchitis, you may choose to have your toddler sit in the bathroom with steam from the shower, take expectorant medicine, and sit upright while sleeping. Try to avoid cough suppressant medication, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Time Frame

• Generally, your child will need to have had a cough for 2 weeks before bronchitis can be formally diagnosed.

Misconceptions

• Your child may not be coughing up or spitting out that mucous--she may be swallowing it. That's OK, although it may cause her to throw up.

Warning

• If your child has rapid, labored breathing, it may not just be bronchitis. If he is having a hard time drawing breath, a visit to the ER is not out of line.

Expert Insight

• Don't assume that it's viral--if your child has bronchitis, take a quick trip to the pediatrician, just to be sure.