For mild bronchiolitis, which treatment is commonly used?

For mild bronchiolitis, which treatment is commonly used?

• A. Antibiotics
• B. Albuterol
• C. Corticosteroids
• D. Ribavirin

Answer: (B)

Mild bronchiolitis is usually a viral infection of the small airways, so care focuses on supportive measures. A quick-acting inhaled bronchodilator like albuterol is commonly tried because some children have a reversible component to their airway narrowing. By relaxing the smooth muscle in the airways, albuterol can temporarily improve wheeze and work of breathing in those who respond. This makes it a practical first-line trial in mild cases to see if there is a bronchodilator-responsive component. If the child improves after a short trial, the treatment plan can continue to focus on comfort, hydration, and observation. If there is no response, the therapy is stopped and other supportive measures are emphasized. Antibiotics are not indicated for a viral process unless a bacterial infection is suspected. Ribavirin is reserved for severe RSV or specific high-risk situations, not mild bronchiolitis. Corticosteroids have not shown consistent benefit and are not routinely used.

Mild bronchiolitis is usually a viral infection of the small airways, so care focuses on supportive measures. A quick-acting inhaled bronchodilator like albuterol is commonly tried because some children have a reversible component to their airway narrowing. By relaxing the smooth muscle in the airways, albuterol can temporarily improve wheeze and work of breathing in those who respond. This makes it a practical first-line trial in mild cases to see if there is a bronchodilator-responsive component.

If the child improves after a short trial, the treatment plan can continue to focus on comfort, hydration, and observation. If there is no response, the therapy is stopped and other supportive measures are emphasized. Antibiotics are not indicated for a viral process unless a bacterial infection is suspected. Ribavirin is reserved for severe RSV or specific high-risk situations, not mild bronchiolitis. Corticosteroids have not shown consistent benefit and are not routinely used.