How Do You Spell VIRAL BRONCHIOLITIS?
Pronunciation: [vˈa͡ɪ͡əɹə͡l bɹˌɒnkɪəlˈa͡ɪtɪs] (IPA) 
Pronunciation: [vˈa͡ɪ͡əɹə͡l bɹˌɒnkɪəlˈa͡ɪtɪs] (IPA)
Viral bronchiolitis is a medical term used to describe a common respiratory illness that primarily affects infants and young children. It is a viral infection that results in the inflammation of the bronchioles, which are the small airways in the lungs.
Viral bronchiolitis is typically caused by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), although other viruses, such as the influenza virus and rhinovirus, can also be responsible. It is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets, such as those produced by coughing or sneezing.
The main symptoms of viral bronchiolitis include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, and a runny nose. These symptoms usually develop within a few days of exposure to the virus. In severe cases, the infection can cause difficulty in feeding, dehydration, and fatigue.
Treatment for viral bronchiolitis mainly focuses on relieving symptoms and providing supportive care. This may involve using over-the-counter medications to reduce fever or nasal congestion, ensuring adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration, and using a cool mist humidifier to provide moisture and ease breathing difficulties.
In most cases, viral bronchiolitis resolves on its own within one to two weeks, although some children with weakened immune systems or pre-existing medical conditions may experience more severe symptoms and may require hospitalization. It is important to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or if breathing difficulties persist.
Prevention of viral bronchiolitis involves practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and keeping infants away from crowded areas during peak viral seasons.
The term "viral bronchiolitis" is composed of two components: "viral" and "bronchiolitis".
1. Viral: The term "viral" is derived from the Latin word "virus", which refers to a submicroscopic infectious agent that reproduces within living cells. The word "virus" itself can be traced back to the Latin word "virus" meaning "poison" or "slime".
2. Bronchiolitis: "Bronchiolitis" is a medical term that is composed of two parts: "bronchio-" and "-itis".
- "Bronchio-" is derived from the Latin word "bronchus", which refers to the passageways or tubes in the respiratory system that branch off from the main bronchus and lead to the smaller air sacs in the lungs.
