Pediatric Bronchitis

Bronchitis is an infection and inflammation of the bronchial tubes of the lungs, which causes a productive (wet) cough.

What is Pediatric Bronchitis ?

Bronchitis occurs when bronchial tubes (the tubes that lead from the windpipe to the lungs) become infected. This irritation leads to a mucus buildup. Your child will cough to bring the mucus up.

Bronchitis can be chronic (ongoing) or acute (sudden). Most children have acute bronchitis, caused by a virus or bacteria. It will eventually get better on its own or through treatment.

What are the different types of Pediatric Bronchitis ?

Chronic bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is primarily a concern for adults. It’s an ongoing, serious condition that is often caused by smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke.

Acute bronchitis

Acute bronchitis may follow a cold or other respiratory infection. It lasts from a few days to 10 days. However, coughing may linger for several weeks after the infection is gone. Pneumonia may follow bronchitis.

What are the signs and symptoms of Pediatric Bronchitis ?

Symptoms of bronchitis include:

  • Back or muscle pain from coughing
  • Chest pains while coughing
  • Chills
  • Enlarged tonsils and adenoids
  • Headache
  • Malaise (feeling run down)
  • Nasal congestion
  • Shortness of breath, tightness in chest
  • Slight fever
  • Sore throat
  • Wheezing or rattling sounds while breathing
  • Cough that may bring up thick white, yellow or greenish mucus

What are the causes of Pediatric Bronchitis ?

Bronchitis can be caused by a virus or bacteria. In 90 percent of cases, bronchitis is viral.  Bronchitis can also be triggered by: