Bronchitis, an infection of the air passages from the throat to the lungs, is a common respiratory illness in young children, especially during the winter or transitional seasons. Bronchitis can pose serious risks to young children, particularly those under 2 years old, if not properly treated. This article aims to guide parents on choosing the appropriate medications for children suffering from bronchitis.
1. Bronchitis in Children
1.1. Causes of Bronchitis in Children
Bronchitis in children is often caused by viruses such as rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza (flu), parainfluenza, adenovirus, among others. Although rare, bacteria can also cause bronchitis in children, especially in cases of compromised immunity or other risk factors. Apart from viruses and bacteria, bronchitis in children can also be triggered by allergens such as industrial dust, chemicals, household dust, animal dander, pollen, cigarette smoke, medications, and food.
In children, the most common cause of bronchitis is a virus.
1.2. Symptoms of Bronchitis in Children
Pediatric bronchitis typically presents respiratory symptoms. Here are some issues children may experience when suffering from bronchitis:
- Fever
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Runny and stuffy nose
- Difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
Coughing is the main symptom of bronchitis in children
1.3. Complications of Bronchitis in Children
Bronchitis in children can lead to various complications, especially if not promptly treated and cared for. Some complications that may arise include:
- Increased risk of otitis media: Since the throat, nose, and ears are interconnected, infections from the bronchial tubes can spread to the throat, nose, and middle ear, causing middle ear infections.
- Pneumonia: In some cases, infections from the bronchial tubes can descend into the lungs, causing pneumonia.
- Asthma: Some children may develop asthma symptoms after bronchitis.
2. Medications for Children with Bronchitis
Since viruses are the main cause of childhood bronchitis, treatment typically focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting the body’s immune response to infection. Depending on the child’s specific health condition and symptoms, the doctor may prescribe certain medications. Here are some common medications used in the treatment of childhood bronchitis:
- Corticosteroid anti-inflammatory drugs: These drugs reduce inflammation and swelling of the bronchial tubes. Anti-inflammatory drugs are usually used in severe or prolonged cases. Children can take anti-inflammatory drugs in inhalation or oral forms. Examples include dexamethasone, prednisone, and budesonide.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): To reduce inflammation and swelling of the bronchial tubes, doctors may also prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen.
- Fever-reducing medications: If the child has a fever, the doctor may prescribe fever-reducing medications such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.
- Cough suppressants: Since coughing can irritate the respiratory tract lining, doctors may prescribe cough suppressants such as dextromethorphan for children.
- 0.9% saline solution: For children with runny or stuffy noses, 0.9% saline solution can be used to remove mucus and provide relief.
- Mucolytic medications: These medications reduce mucus in the bronchial tubes, making breathing easier. N-acetylcysteine is a typical mucolytic drug.
- Bronchodilators: These drugs help widen the bronchial tubes, increase airflow into the lungs, and reduce wheezing or rattling sounds during breathing. Bronchodilators are commonly used in cases of wheezing or rattling breathing. Common bronchodilators include albuterol and ipratropium.
- Antispasmodic medications: Doctors may prescribe antispasmodic drugs such as tiotropium to help children control bronchial spasms.
- Antiemetic medications: In some cases, antiemetic drugs like ondansetron may be used to reduce the risk of vomiting in children with bronchitis.
In cases where bronchitis is caused by bacteria, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics such as amoxicillin, azithromycin, or cefuroxime. If bronchitis is caused by allergens, the doctor may prescribe antiallergic or antihistamine medications such as cetirizine or loratadine. The aforementioned symptomatic relief medications are still applicable for children with bronchitis caused by these factors.
Depending on the child’s specific health condition, the doctor will decide on the appropriate type and dosage of medication.
Parents should note that medication should be administered under the supervision of a doctor. Depending on the child’s specific health condition and various factors, the doctor will decide on the appropriate type and dosage of medication.
Above is the answer to the question of what medications children should take when they have bronchitis. It is hoped that parents will ensure the safety of their children against this common respiratory illness.
