Bronchitis in children

Overview

Bronchitis in children is swelling (inflammation) of the airways that carry air to the lungs. It often starts after a cold and causes a cough. Most cases are caused by viruses and get better on their own with rest and care.

Yes, bronchitis is very common in children, especially those under 5 years old.

It most often affects young children, particularly babies and preschoolers, because their immune systems are still developing.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A cough that may start dry and later bring up mucus (phlegm)
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Low fever (temperature up to 100.4°F / 38°C)
• Tiredness and irritability

Symptoms in children

• The same symptoms as above, but young children may also have wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing)
• Fast breathing or trouble feeding
• Chest congestion or rattling sound in the chest

Symptoms in older adults

• Bronchitis in older adults is not the focus here, but it can last longer and be more severe if they have other health conditions.

Causes

Main causes

• Viruses such as the common cold virus, flu, or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
• Rarely, bacteria can cause bronchitis after a viral illness

Risk factors

• Exposure to secondhand smoke (living with someone who smokes)
• Having asthma or allergies
• Being born prematurely (before 37 weeks)
• Attending daycare or school where viruses spread easily

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If your child has difficulty breathing, blue lips, very high fever, or is very drowsy – call emergency services immediately.
• If the cough lasts more than 3 weeks or comes with a high fever that does not improve.
• If you notice your child is wheezing or has trouble eating or drinking.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If your child has a mild cough and low fever, you can usually manage at home. See a doctor if you are worried or if symptoms get worse.

Diagnosis

A doctor will listen to your child's symptoms, ask about recent colds or fevers, and listen to their chest with a stethoscope to check for wheezing or crackling sounds.

Tests that may be done

• Usually no tests are needed for mild bronchitis.
• If the illness is severe or the doctor suspects pneumonia, they may order a chest X-ray.
• Rarely, a swab from the nose or throat may be taken to check for the specific virus.

What to expect at your appointment

You will likely take your child to a GP (family doctor) for an appointment. They will examine your child and explain whether antibiotics are needed (they rarely are). The visit should be quick and reassuring.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on helping your child feel better while the body fights the virus. Antibiotics do not work for viral bronchitis. Most children recover with home care.

Self-care at home

• Encourage your child to rest at home until the fever is gone and they feel better.
• Give plenty of fluids such as water, warm soup, or breastmilk/formula for babies.
• Use a cool-mist humidifier in the room to help loosen mucus and ease coughing.
• For children over 1 year old, a small amount of honey (½ to 1 teaspoon) can soothe a cough. Never give honey to babies under 1 year because of the risk of botulism.
• Keep the child away from tobacco smoke and other irritants.

Medical treatments

If your child has a fever or is in pain, a doctor may recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever such as paracetamol or ibuprofen in age-appropriate doses. For wheezing, a doctor might prescribe a puffer (inhaler) to help open the airways. Antibiotics are only given if the doctor confirms a bacterial infection, which is rare.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used for bronchitis in children.

Living with this condition

While your child has bronchitis, keep them home from school or daycare until they have no fever and feel well enough to return. Encourage handwashing to prevent spreading the virus to others. Ensure they get plenty of sleep and rest.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid secondhand smoke and other air pollution.
• Keep your home clean and free of dust and mould.
• Make sure your child washes their hands often, especially after coughing or sneezing.

Diet and exercise

Your child can eat a normal diet if they feel like it, but encourage fluids more than solids. Light physical activity is fine once they feel better, but avoid vigorous exercise until the cough is completely gone.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Caring for a sick child can be stressful and tiring. It is normal to feel worried or anxious. Talk to your partner, family, or friends for support. If you feel overwhelmed, speak to your health visitor or GP.

Prevention

You cannot completely prevent bronchitis, but you can reduce the risk by washing hands regularly, keeping your child away from people who are sick, and not smoking around them.

Vaccines

Make sure your child gets the flu vaccine every year (if recommended by your doctor). The flu vaccine can help prevent the flu, which is a common cause of bronchitis. Other routine childhood vaccines also help prevent some infections.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for bronchitis. If your child has frequent or severe respiratory infections, a doctor may check for underlying conditions like asthma.

Complications

If left untreated

• In rare cases, bronchitis can turn into pneumonia (a lung infection).
• It can also lead to ear infections or sinusitis (sinus infection).
• For children with asthma, bronchitis can trigger breathing attacks.

Long-term outlook

Most children recover completely within 2 to 3 weeks without any long-term problems. Even with treatment, the cough can sometimes last a few weeks after the infection is gone. Serious complications are very rare, especially if your child is generally healthy. With good home care and medical advice when needed, almost all children do well.

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