Focus on Children’s Health The early childhood illnesses you are likely to encounter as a new parent CHILDREN’S HEALTH Becoming a new parent is daunting enough, but when your child becomes ill, it can take all the strength you have not to fall apart! From the common cold, to diarrhoea and gastroenteritis, being informed and prepared can make the world of difference to keeping sane during your little one’s sick period. Bronchiolitis What is it? Bronchiolitis is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the small air passages in the lungs (bronchioles). It most commonly effects children under six months up to a year old and often comes in waves during the colder months. Causes Bronchiolitis is usually caused by a virus known as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which is spread by sneezing, coughing or personal contact. Symptoms At first, you may think your child is suffering from a cold: a runny nose and sneezing, and perhaps a mild fever has your little man or miss feeling under the weather. But soon your child develops a cough and his/her breathing becomes rapid and laboured and is accompanied by a wheezing sound. These are all signs your baby is suffering from bronchiolitis. If he/ she seems distressed, is struggling to breathe and/or is not feeding well, it’s advised to seek immediate medical treatment. Treatment Mild cases can be managed at home with minimal medical intervention. Offer your baby smaller feeds, more frequently, to keep his/her fluids up. Try and make sure your baby rests as much as possible. Only administer child’s paracetamol (as per dosage instructions on the package) if your child appears uncomfortable. If the bronchiolitis is more severe, hospitalisation may be required so that your child can receive fluids intravenously or via tube into the stomach and oxygen to assist with breathing. As bronchiolitis is contagious, it’s very important that you keep your baby away from other children during his/her infectious period. pindaramagazine.com.au Pindara Magazine 55
Pindara Private Hospital Magazine - Issue One
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