Bronchitis in Children: What Parents Need to Know

Bronchitis is the inflammation of the airways that carry air into the lungs. In kids it often shows up after a cold or flu and can make breathing feel tight, coughing, or noisy. Knowing the basics helps you act fast and keep your child comfortable.

Common Signs and When to Call the Doctor

Typical symptoms include a persistent cough that may bring up mucus, wheezing, shortness of breath, fever, and a feeling of chest tightness. If the cough lasts more than two weeks, the fever spikes above 101°F (38.5°C), or your child looks unusually sleepy or blue‑tinged around the lips, call a pediatrician right away. These could be signs of a more serious infection or asthma flare‑up.

Watch for rapid breathing, chest retractions (the skin pulling in around the ribs), or a high‑pitched squeak when they breathe out. Those clues mean the airway is narrowing and medical help is needed ASAP.

Treatment Options and Home Care

Most cases of acute bronchitis in kids are viral, so antibiotics aren’t needed unless a bacterial infection is confirmed. The main goal is to ease symptoms: keep the child hydrated, use a humidifier in the bedroom, and encourage rest. Warm fluids like soup or honey‑sweetened tea (for kids over 1 year) can soothe the throat and thin mucus.

If the doctor prescribes medication, they may recommend a short‑course bronchodilator inhaler to open the airways. For children over 6 years, a dose of albuterol inhaler (usually 2 puffs every 4‑6 hours as needed) is common. Always follow the exact dosing instructions and use a spacer for better delivery.

Over‑the‑counter cough suppressants are generally not advised for children under 6. Instead, you can try saline nasal drops, chest percussion (gentle clapping on the back), or a cool‑mist vaporizer to loosen secretions.

Preventing future bouts starts with good hand‑washing, avoiding smoke exposure, and keeping up‑to‑date on vaccines like the flu shot and pertussis. A healthy diet rich in fruits and veggies supports the immune system, making it less likely for a cold to turn into bronchitis.

If your child has a history of asthma or recurrent bronchitis, the doctor might suggest a daily inhaled corticosteroid to keep inflammation down. Keep a written asthma action plan handy and review it with your pediatrician at least once a year.

Most kids bounce back within a week or two with proper care. Keep track of symptoms in a notebook or app—note cough frequency, fever, and any medication you give. This record helps the doctor see patterns and adjust treatment if needed.

Remember, you know your child best. If something feels off, trust your gut and seek medical advice. With quick action and simple home steps, bronchitis can be managed safely and your child can get back to playing in no time.