In addition, at Dixie Regional we are committed to inform prospective parents, outline medical choices and respect and facilitate the decision each family makes about how that very special event, the arrival of their newest family member, will occur. When your child isn't breathing easily, neither are you. At Dixie Regional Medical Center the number of infants and young children hospitalized from bronchiolitis is generally higher in February than any other time of year. Any one of a number of different viruses can be the cause. The cold-like symptoms of bronchiolitis typically begin with a runny nose, a slight fever for two to three days, then the child may begin to cough, breathe rapidly and wheeze for another few days.
Most children recover without complication.
It's always appropriate to call your physician whenever you feel frightened or worried about your child's illness. If your child's symptoms are not severe you can do several things to help ease beathing and discomfort. Use a cool mist vaporizer in the bedroom while the child is sleeping. Elevating the head of the bed or crib during sleep may also improve breathability. Steamy air in a closed bathroom containing a tub of hot water can make breathing easier during waking times.