What is the typical management approach for bronchiolitis?

The typical management approach for bronchiolitis focuses on supportive care and bronchodilators. This is primarily because bronchiolitis, usually caused by viral infections like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), does not respond to antibiotics or antiviral treatments, which are more suited for bacterial infections and specific viral infections, respectively.

Supportive care is essential because it addresses the symptoms and ensures the patient maintains adequate hydration and oxygenation. This often involves supplemental oxygen if the patient's oxygen saturation levels are low, along with nasal suctioning to clear mucus and facilitate easier breathing.

Bronchodilators, although their efficacy in bronchiolitis may vary, are sometimes used to help relieve wheezing or airway obstruction in certain cases. This treatment approach aligns with current clinical guidelines for managing bronchiolitis in infants and young children.

The other management options, such as antibiotics or corticosteroids, are generally not recommended because they do not target the underlying viral cause, and their use might lead to unnecessary side effects. Surgical intervention is reserved for extreme cases where complications arise, such as significant respiratory distress or anatomical abnormalities, making it an uncommon part of bronchiolitis management. Therefore, the emphasis on supportive measures with the possible addition of bronchod