Question 1

Will my baby need to stay in hospital?

Accepted Answer

Most babies recover at home. Babies who are admitted usually need oxygen, fluids through a vein and sometimes breathing support, and the CDC notes that most improve with this supportive care and go home in a few days.

Question 2

Can my baby be protected against RSV?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The CDC recommends either an RSV vaccine during pregnancy or an RSV antibody given to the baby, and most infants need only one of the two. Ask your pediatrician which one fits your baby's birth month.

Question 3

Do antibiotics help bronchiolitis?

Accepted Answer

No. The American Academy of Pediatrics explains that antibiotics treat bacteria, not the viruses that cause bronchiolitis. Your pediatrician will only add one if a separate bacterial infection is found.

Question 4

How do I count my baby's breaths?

Accepted Answer

Wait until your baby is calm or asleep, watch the chest rise and count for a full minute, then write the number and the time down. Counting during crying or a high fever gives a falsely high number.

Question 5

How long does bronchiolitis last?

Accepted Answer

It starts like a cold, breathing is usually hardest on day two or three, and MedlinePlus notes that breathing often gets better by the third day with symptoms mostly clearing within a week. A dry cough can hang around for two to three more weeks.

Question 6

Should I give my baby a lukewarm or cold bath to bring the fever down?

Accepted Answer

No. Cold water or rubbing alcohol can cause shivering and chills. Dress your baby in light clothing, keep feeding, and focus on reaching a doctor.

Question 7

Which thermometer should I use for a newborn?

Accepted Answer

Use a digital thermometer and never a glass mercury one. For babies under 3 months, a rectal reading is the most reliable; ear thermometers are not used at this age, and forehead readings are only a first check.

Question 8

My 2-month-old got vaccines today and now has a fever. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

A mild fever can follow vaccines, but do not try to sort that out on your own at this age. Call your pediatrician's office or after-hours line and follow their advice.

Question 9

My baby's fever went down on its own. Do I still need to call the doctor?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In a baby under 3 months, only an exam, and sometimes tests, can show what caused the fever. A lower reading does not mean the cause is gone, so call your pediatrician and share the reading and the time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions(9 questions)