Viral Wheeze Flashcards
What is a viral wheeze?
A wheeze that is only present in response to viral infection
How common is viral wheeze?
It accounts for most pre-school wheeze
How does viral wheeze compare to asthma?
They have similar symptoms but are different conditions, however some children with viral wheeze may then develop asthma in the future
What causes a viral wheeze?
Narrowing of the airways due to inflammation in response to viral infection
What causes viral wheeze?
Viruses that cause the common cold
What are the risk factors for a viral wheeze?
- Maternal smoking during pregnancy
- Second hand smoke inhalation
- Prematurity
- Male gender
- Previous bronchiolitis
What are the symptoms of a viral wheeze?
- Wheeze
- Tachypnoea
- SoB
- Difficulty feeding
What are the differentials for viral wheeze?
- Asthma
- Bronchiolitis
How is a viral wheeze usually managed?
Salbutamol via a spacer - a nebuliser if the child is very breathless
What medication can be given to reduce inflammation?
Prednisolone for 2-3 days
What other medications may be useful?
Montelukast or ipratropium
Do most children with viral wheeze need a regular preventer?
No
