Bronchiolitis (infection of the small airways or bronchioles)

Bronchiolitis

Sinus infection Infection of the pharynx Infection of the large airways Middle ear infection Infection of the tonsils Infection of the voice box Infection of the small airways Lung infection

Click on the name of the infection in the image above to find out more about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of these respiratory tract infections.

What is bronchiolitis?

Bronchiolitis is an infection of the bronchioles (the small airways in the lung), and is usually caused by a virus.

Viral bronchiolitis is the most common chest infection (lower respiratory tract) in babies aged up to 12 months. It is also the most common reason for hospitalisation in babies younger than 6 months. Bronchiolitis can cause serious problems in young babies, including pneumonia and severe breathing problems. Severe cases can sometimes lead to death if not treated, but this is rare.

Viral bronchiolitis is rare in adults.

Bronchiolitis is not the same as bronchitis, which affects the bronchi — a different part of the respiratory tract.

Find out more about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of bronchiolitis.

References
  1. Respiratory Expert Group. Therapeutic guidelines: Acute bronchiolitis. In: eTG complete [online]. Melbourne: Therapeutic Guidelines Limited, 2012 (accessed 27 March 2012).
  2. NHS Choices – Bronchiolitis: www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Bronchiolitis/Pages/Introduction.aspx (accessed 27 March 2012).

Latest information - bronchiolitis

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22 Jun 2012 – Diagnosis of bronchiolitis will be based on symptoms and the sounds your child makes when they breathe. Learn more about the diagnosis of bronchiolitis here.
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22 Jun 2012 – Bronchiolitis is caused by viruses, including the flu and cold viruses. Learn more about the causes of bronchiolitis here.
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22 Jun 2012 – Bronchiolitis affects young babies and can cause serious problems. Learn about the symptoms of bronchiolitis and when to seek medical advice or emergency medical treatment.
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