In the Alpes Maritimes also pediatric emergencies are in tension.
Bronchiolitis is a viral infection that affects the bronchioles. This virus mainly affects children under two years of age; and mainly infants under three months.
His symptoms : shortness of breath, cough, fever and difficulty eating. Remember that until the age of three months an infant is not able to breathe through the mouth; he can only breathe through his nose; hence the importance of washing his nose regularly (up to 10 times a day in case of stuffy nose!)
Beware of the RSV virus (a good cold) in adults, which can result in bronchiolitis in children! In case of a cold in an adult, avoid contact with toddlers! The baby’s presentation visit to grandparents with the flu can wait.
Bronchiolitis Checkpoints
Here are Dr. Kebaili’s basic tips for assessing your child’s condition before going to the emergency room. The Nice pediatrician recalls that these services are congested; it is therefore advisable not to rush into it if the situation is under control. Three points to check in case of suspected bronchiolitis and before going to the emergency room:
1. The temperature: if the fever lasts for more than 48 hours (we call “fever” a temperature over 38°), then you must consult. This can be bronchiolitis or even a superinfection.
2. Respiratory condition: if your child breathes quickly and coughs a lot, it is advisable to consult. If the ribs are hollow when the child breathes while he is at rest, this is not a good sign.
3: Food: if the toddler eats less than half of his usual ration over 3 consecutive meals, there is a danger.
Before checking these three points, remember to wash your baby’s nose. A nose wash can improve a situation!
The different phases of the virus
Bronchiolitis lasts about ten days: for 48h/72h: this is the aggravation phase. To be watched very closely. Then for 5/6 days of the so-called “plateau” phase. Then the bronchiolitis decreases for 3 to 4 days.
Know that there is no medicine specific to the virus. Or vaccine, although studies are underway.
Dr Aymène Kebaili is a pediatrician in pediatric intensive care at Lenval and founder of the application PARENTALIS
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An application that offers health content to parents and answers their questions in the field of health and well-being on children. You will find practical sheets on bronchiolitis in particular.