Bronchiolitis
Definition
Bronchiolitis is an inflammation of the small passages in the lungs (bronchioles), usually caused by a viral infection.
Causes
Bronchiolitis usually affects children under the age of 2, with a peak age of 3 - 6 months. It is a common, sometimes severe illness. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is one common cause. Other viruses that can cause bronchiolitis include:
- Adenovirus
- Influenza
- Parainfluenza
The virus is transmitted from person-to-person by direct contact with nasal secretions or by airborne droplets. Although RSV generally causes only mild symptoms in an adult, it can cause a severe illness in an infant.
Bronchiolitis is seasonal and appears more often in the fall and winter months. It is a very common reason for infants to be hospitalized during winter and early spring. It is estimated that by the first year, more than half of all infants have been exposed to RSV.
Risk factors include:
- Being exposed to cigarette smoke
- Being less than 6 months old
- Living in crowded conditions
- Never being breastfed
- Prematurity (born before 37 weeks gestation)
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by
URAC, also known as the American
Accreditation HealthCare Commission. URAC's accreditation program is
the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and
accountability, verified by independent audit.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2005 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.