Respiratory: Viral Induced Wheeze Flashcards
What age group does it typically affect?
Preschool ages
Why does it have an episodic nature?
Symptoms only with viral chest infections (rhinovirus, influenza, parainfluenza, RSV)
What virus is a common cause?
Rhinovirus
Are there symptoms between infections?
No
What does the wheeze result from?
Small airways in children narrowing and obstructing due to inflammation and aberrant immune responses to viral infection
What risk factors are there?
Maternal smoking during/ and or after pregnancy
Prematurity
FH of early viral wheezing
Is it more common in males?
Yes - narrower airways
When does it usually resolve?
By 5 years of age - likely from increase in airway size
How does it present?
Coryzal prodrome
Dry cough
Dyspnoea
Auscultation: diffuse wheeze
How is an acute episode managed?
Inhaled relievers (bronchodilators) Salbutamol +/- ipratropium bromide
Is there any benefit from steroids or antibiotics?
No
Are interval inhalers indicated?
No
Is a family history of asthma or allergy a RF?
No
