Bronchitis

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Bronchitis 〰️

Care Plan

What to expect

These are the most common symptoms:

  • Dry or mucus-filled cough

  • Vomiting or gagging

  • Runny nose, often before a cough starts

  • Chest congestion or pain

  • An overall body discomfort or not feeling well

  • Chills

  • Slight fever

  • Back and muscle pain

  • Wheezing

  • Sore throat

These symptoms often last 7 to 14 days. But the cough may continue for 3 to 4 weeks. These symptoms may look like other health problems. Make sure your child sees their healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

  • How to prevent?

    You can help prevent acute bronchitis by stopping the spread of viruses that may lead to it. Take these steps:

  • Teach your child to cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.

  • Make sure your child washes their hands often.

  • Keep your child up-to-date on all vaccines, including the yearly flu shot.

  • Keep your child away from others who are sick. If your child is sick, keep them away from others.

How to care for bronchitis?

The treatment for your child will depend on their symptoms, age, overall health, and the severity of the condition.

In most cases, antibiotics will not be used to treat acute bronchitis because the majority of these infections are caused by viruses. Even if your child has been coughing for more than 8 to 10 days, antibiotics are usually not necessary unless there is a bacterial infection present.

The goal of treatment is to ease symptoms, which may include:

- Plenty of rest

- Acetaminophen or ibuprofen (for children over 6 months) for fever and mild pain, as directed by your child’s healthcare provider

- Cough medicine for children over 4 years old, if recommended by your child’s healthcare provider

- Increased fluid intake

- Using a cool-mist humidifier in your child’s room

Consult your child’s healthcare provider before giving over-the-counter cough and cold medicine. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against these medicines for children under 4 years old due to potential harmful side effects. For children aged 4 to 6, use over-the-counter products only if advised by your child's healthcare provider. Typically, antihistamines are also not recommended as they can dry up secretions and worsen the cough.

Never give aspirin to a child or teen due to the risk of Reye syndrome, a rare but serious condition that primarily affects the brain and liver.

Call your child’s healthcare provider right away if your child’s symptoms get worse, if new symptoms develop, or if they:

  • Have a high fever

  • Can't keep liquids down

  • Aren't eating or drinking

  • Aren't having wet diapers