Difference Between RSV and Bronchiolitis

Bronchiolitis is an infection that affects the lungs and breathing passages; the name “bronchiolitis” means inflammation of the small airways in the lungs. Bronchiolitis is caused by viruses, the most common being respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

1. What is the difference between bronchiolitis and bronchitis?
2. Can RSV cause bronchitis?
3. How long does RSV bronchiolitis last?
4. Is RSV bronchiolitis contagious?
5. What is the best treatment for bronchiolitis?
6. Can bronchiolitis damage lungs?
7. Is RSV worse than flu?
8. What is the fastest way to cure bronchitis?
9. What day does RSV peak?
10. How is RSV bronchiolitis treated?
11. Does bronchiolitis get worse at night?
12. Can I catch bronchiolitis from my baby?

What is the difference between bronchiolitis and bronchitis?

Both can be caused by a virus. Both affect the airways in the lungs, but bronchitis affects the larger airways (the bronchi). Bronchiolitis affects the smaller airways (bronchioles). Bronchitis usually affects older children and adults, while bronchiolitis is more common in younger children.

Can RSV cause bronchitis?

The infection makes the bronchioles swell and become inflamed. Mucus collects in these airways, which makes it difficult for air to flow freely in and out of the lungs. Most cases of bronchiolitis are caused by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

How long does RSV bronchiolitis last?

Bronchiolitis usually lasts about 1–2 weeks. Sometimes it can take several weeks for symptoms to go away.

Is RSV bronchiolitis contagious?

People infected with RSV are usually contagious for 3 to 8 days. However, some infants, and people with weakened immune systems, can continue to spread the virus even after they stop showing symptoms, for as long as 4 weeks.

What is the best treatment for bronchiolitis?

There are no vaccines or specific treatments for bronchiolitis. Antibiotics and cold medicine are not effective in treating bronchiolitis. Most cases go away on their own and can be cared for at home. It is key that your child drinks lots of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Can bronchiolitis damage lungs?

Bronchiolitis is the result of injury to the small airways in the lung. Bronchiolitis is a general term to describe lung damage. This damage can be caused by many things.

Is RSV worse than flu?

Study results suggest flu may cause more severe illness than RSV in older adults. That's based on two key points: People with RSV delayed seeking treatment after the onset of illness more than patients with flu. Fewer RSV patients were hospitalized within 30 days compared to those with flu.

What is the fastest way to cure bronchitis?

Relief for Acute Bronchitis

1. Drink lots of fluids, especially water. Try eight to 12 glasses a day to help thin out that mucus and make it easier to cough up. ...
2. Get plenty of rest.
3. Use over-the-counter pain relievers with ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), or aspirin to help with pain.

What day does RSV peak?

RSV symptoms peak around day 5 of the illness and often improve at 7–10 days. However, the cough may linger for about 4 weeks due to the slow recovery of the ciliated cells.

How is RSV bronchiolitis treated?

Treatment for infants with bronchiolitis caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) includes supplemental oxygen, nasal suctioning, fluids to prevent dehydration, and other supportive therapies.

Does bronchiolitis get worse at night?

Symptoms are often worse at night. Illness usually starts to improve after two to three days. Infection may be worse and last for longer in very young children (under three months), premature babies or children with lung or heart problems.

Can I catch bronchiolitis from my baby?

Can you catch bronchiolitis? Yes, bronchiolitis is very easy to catch - it can spread easily between children or from adults to children. It is most common in winter and spring.