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Overview
While there are two major types of bronchitis, acute and chronic, acute bronchitis is the most common type of bronchitis diagnosed in children. In a healthy child, air easily moves in and out of the bronchial tubes. When a child is suffering from acute bronchitis, these airways become swollen and narrow, making it difficult for air to pass easily in and out of the lungs.
Causes
Acute bronchitis in children is most often caused by a viral respiratory infection. Usually the virus affects the sinuses, nose or throat and then settles in the lungs. Acute bronchitis can also result in a bacterial infection in the lungs in addition to the virus. Acute bronchitis can be triggered by a cold or the flu.
Chronic bronchitis can be the result of exposure to lung irritants, such as second hand smoke, household chemicals or smog. Other breathing problems like asthma can also trigger bronchitis. Allergies can make bronchitis more serious.
Symptoms
Acute bronchitis often starts out mimicking a common cold. As the virus settles into the lungs, the child may develop labored, noisy breathing or may wheeze. They may also cough up excess mucus that varies in color from yellow to green. Some children may get a fever or have chills. Generally, a child with acute bronchitis will experience shortness of breath and may complain of chest discomfort.
Diagnosis
To diagnosis bronchitis, a doctor will listen to the child's lungs with a stethoscope. Abnormal lung sounds may confirm bronchitis. A pulmonary function test can also be used to test lung function. Decreased lung function may indicate bronchitis. Abnormalities spotted in a chest x-ray can also confirm bronchitis. Children who are old enough to spit may be asked to spit sputum (mucus) into a cup that can be analyzed by the lab for infection.
Treatment
Children who have acute bronchitis are asked to drink lots of fluids to help prevent dehydration and to loosen mucus. A humidifier can also help treat the symptoms of bronchitis. Children's strength pain relievers such as Tylenol, Motrin or Advil can be given to help make the child feel more comfortable. Never give aspirin to a child, since it is linked to the development of Reye's Syndrome (see Resources). Do not give children cough medicines unless specifically prescribed by a doctor. If your child has a secondary bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed.
Prevention/Solution
Since the flu can trigger bronchitis, children may benefit from getting an annual flu shot. Bronchitis can also be prevented by thorough hand washing to prevent the spread of germs. Avoiding lung irritants like smoke and smog can also help keep bronchitis at bay.
