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An infectious disease primarily found in infants and toddlers. It affects the lower airways (bronchioles) causing inflammation. This results in swelling and an increase in mucus which may narrow or obstruct the airways.
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It is a contagious disease, most commonly caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), but may also be caused by other viruses such as parainfluenza and adenovirus.
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The disease may begin with cold-like symptoms such as runny nose, cough, decreased appetite, sneezing and slight fever.
As it progresses the cough may become worse and the child may have increasing difficulty breathing. They display a faster rate of breathing and rib recession (a "sucking" in of ribs), and may also wheeze. Fever may continue, the child has a lack of appetite and if more severe, may show a blue color around the mouth and lips. Breathing is noisier than usual and vomiting may occur.
Many will get only a mild form of the illness and display only the early cold-like signs and symptoms. However, some will require hospital care.
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Treatment at home is often all that is necessary after consulting the doctor. This may include: medication to control fever, keeping the child as quiet as possible, encourage drinking, an upright position and a humidifier may be recommended to improve breathing. If the child worsens, medical attention should be sought as hospitalisation may be required.
In hospital the treatment may include the following depending on condition: oxygen to aid breathing, intravenous fluids if unable/unwilling to drink adequate amounts, humidification, and rest. Antibiotics are not effective against a virus, but may be given if there is a secondary infection such as an ear infection. A small percentage of patients may need mechanical ventilation (a respirator). If the cause is known to be RSV an aerosol medication may be given to shorten the disease. The illness usually lasts 7-10 days but hospitalisation is rarely required for the entire time.
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Chances may be reduced by preventing a child from being exposed to sick people as much as possible, washing hands and avoiding exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke. There is a preventative medication available to high risk people, such as premature infants, those with cardiac or lung disease, and immunosupressed individuals.
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