| Definition
|
Inflammation of the
bronchial tree and often the wind pipe, or the trachea. |
| Reason
|
Varies with the
causative organism. |
| Susceptibility
|
Greatest
in those under 4 years . |
| Symptoms
|
| 1 |
Cold symptoms. |
| 2. |
Abrupt onset of fever. |
| 3. |
Harsh cough
worse at night with greenish or yellowish sputum and vomiting. |
| 4. |
Wheezing or
whistling on breathing out especially with a family history of allergy. |
| 5. |
Lips and finger
nails may be tinged blue. |
|
| Cause
|
Usually a virus, but a
secondary bacterial infection is common. |
| Transmission
|
Usually by
respiratory secretions. |
| Incubation
|
Varies with
the causative organism. |
| Duration
|
Fever lasts for 2-3
days, cough may last for 1-2 weeks or more. |
| Treatment
|
Call a doctor if high
fever and cough. Antibiotics may be prescribed by the doctor. |
| Diet
Advised |
Sufficient amounts of
clear fluids.
|
