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Bronchitis is an infection of the bronchial tubes. Bronchitis may occur when the cold or flu or infection settles in the tubes of the lungs. In bronchitis for kids, your child may start coughing up phlegm and show signs of shortness of breath.

Here at Night Lite Pediatrics Urgent Care, we thrive to provide you the best respiratory care for your child, whether that be a treatment for a generic viral infection, bacterial infections, or chronic illnesses such as asthma.

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Causes of bronchitis:

There are a few causes of bronchitis for babies, children, and adolescents, such as:

  • Viral infection – The same virus as the common cold or flu can cause acute bronchitis.
  • Bacterial infection – Rarer than the viral variant, bacterial bronchitis can occur after an exacerbation of viral bronchitis, involving bacteria such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Bordetella pertussis.
  • Irritation – smoke, smog, and soot can cause irritation or inflammation in the bronchial tubes.
  • Chronic respiratory illness – Conditions such as Cystic Fibrosis and asthma can predispose bronchitis for children

At Night Lite Pediatrics, we make it convenient for your little one to receive fast and premium urgent care treatment by booking an arrival time online. We deliver after-hours care so the ER does not have to be your last resort!

bronchitis in toddlers

What are symptoms of Bronchitis in children?

Typical symptoms of acute bronchitis in children are as follows:

  • Sore throat
  • A persistent cough (dry the develop into a purulent cough)
  • Sneeze or wheeze
  • Shivering and feeling cold
  • Muscle aches
  • Fever

Online scheduling and walk-in appointments are available. To schedule online click here.

How is bronchitis diagnosed in a child?

When bronchitis is caused by some allergic or chemical irritation, or by a virus, antibiotics will NOT be required.  You may receive other prescriptions for medications to help with the symptoms. However, if your child starts developing a more productive cough or has any trouble breathing, we recommend you bring them into our clinic for assessment.

 

Our pediatricians will first carry out a physical exam. They will assess your child’s cough and check the mucus produced (if any), as well as ask for a complete medical history to rule out chronic respiratory conditions.

If there is a degree of uncertainty with your diagnosis, your pediatrician will refer your child to our on-site radiology department for a chest X-ray in order to rule out conditions such as pneumonia.

bronchitis for children

Bronchitis Treatment

If your bronchitis is of bacterial origin, your doctor will prescribe a course of medication for your child. Otherwise, most cases of acute bronchitis will resolve on their own as they are viral.

When to Call your Pediatrician or Return to Night Lite Pediatrics:

  • Continued high fever (over 102F), despite medications.
  • Repeated vomiting or inability to tolerate medications.
  • Severe chest pain, unresponsive to pain medications.
  • A worsening cough or trouble breathing.
  • Any other new or worsening symptoms occur that concern you.

FAQ

Some of the most commonly asked questions are answered below.

If your child develops a productive cough (a cough that brings up phlegm) with coloured sputum, has trouble breathing, or has whooping cough, then bronchitis may be serious.

Acute bronchitis is mostly caused by a viral infection. However, bronchitis may also be bacterial or it can arise from dust, fumes, and tobacco smoke. Antibiotics will help only bacterial bronchitis or pneumonia.

Acute bronchitis usually resolves within 10 days. If the condition persists any longer, we recommend you bring them in for a check-up. Book an arrival time today! Walk in appointments are also available. 

This just means that your child’s immune system is working. If this continues for more than 10 days, bring them in for a visit. Book an arrival time  to be seen within minutes or walk in to any of our 13 locations.

Disclaimer: This article is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment. It is aimed at presenting a perspective only and is not a substitute for a prescription. Anyone experiencing a medical condition should consult their doctor.

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