Bronchitis in children: symptoms, treatment and prevention
When your child is sick and is constantly coughing, it can be worrisome for any parent. Children are at higher risk of acute bronchitis, or inflammation of the breathing tubes, which is one cause of a long-lasting cough.
Here is what you need to know about bronchitis in kids, including symptoms, treatments and when to seek help.
What is bronchitis?
Bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchi, the breathing tubes in the lungs. This makes it hard for air to move in and out of the lungs, increasing mucus production and triggering a constant cough.
The two most common types of bronchitis are chronic (long-lasting) and acute (short-term). Chronic bronchitis is most common in adults and can be mild but may last for several years. It is most common in smokers or those exposed to environmental irritants.
Acute bronchitis can be caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It often comes on quickly and may be more severe. But, unlike chronic bronchitis, it resolves in 10 days.
Common symptoms of bronchitis in children
The main symptom of acute bronchitis is a productive cough that brings up a thick mucus. Other bronchitis symptoms in kids may include:
- Chills
- Fever
- Headache
- Shortness of breath
- Tightness in the chest
- Wheezing
Recognizing early symptoms
Early symptoms of bronchitis in kids are usually similar to other respiratory illnesses like the cold or flu. These can include:
- Feeling generally unwell
- Fever
- Muscle or back pain
- Non-productive cough
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
Signs of bronchitis in kids as it progresses
The initial non-productive cough that is common in the early stages of bronchitis will progress to a productive cough with white, yellow or green mucus. The mucus can cause gagging or vomiting, particularly in younger children. Symptoms tend to last between seven days up to four weeks.
Causes and risk factors
Bronchitis typically results from a viral infection, accounting for about 90% of cases, with bacterial causes much less common. It may happen after getting a cold or the flu, but can also be triggered by other respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 or RSV.
Certain children may be more at risk of developing bronchitis. Risk factors include:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Chronic sinusitis
- Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
- Exposure to secondhand smoke
- Suppressed immune system due to other health conditions
Treatment options for bronchitis in children
The treatment for bronchitis depends on the underlying cause. Your healthcare provider will evaluate the symptoms and may order medical tests, such as chest X-rays or blood tests, to determine the correct treatment.
Home care and symptom management
Often, symptoms of bronchitis can be managed at home. These at-home remedies may not cure bronchitis but can often make your child feel better. These can include:
- Avoiding lung irritants, like secondhand smoke
- Chicken soup
- Cold mist humidifier
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Getting enough rest
- Honey mixed with lemon (not to be given to children under 1 year old)
- Warm tea with honey
Medical treatments
Medical treatments for bronchitis depend on the symptoms, the child's age, and other health conditions. A healthcare provider will start by performing a physical examination and evaluating the symptoms to determine the correct treatment.
If a virus causes bronchitis, your healthcare provider will not prescribe antibiotics, as these only work against bacterial infections.
Treatments for bronchitis may include:
- A bronchodilator or other medication used to treat asthma
- Antibiotics if the cause is bacterial
- Cough medications, either prescription or over-the-counter
- Pain medications or fever reducers
Preventing bronchitis in children
Bronchitis cannot always be prevented, but staying healthy and practicing illness prevention, like handwashing, can help.
Everyday prevention tips
A few ways to stay healthy and prevent bronchitis may include:
- Avoiding others who are ill
- Eating a well-balanced diet
- Getting enough rest
- Regularly washing your hands
- Staying hydrated
- Staying up to date with vaccines
Environmental factors
A major risk factor for bronchitis is smoking, including exposure to secondhand smoke. So, if a family member smokes, encourage them to quit. Other environmental irritants like dust, pollen, chemicals, and pollution can also increase the risk of bronchitis.
When to seek medical attention
If your child is having difficulty breathing, is not eating or drinking, or can’t keep any liquids down, it is important to seek medical attention. If there are other symptoms you are concerned about, our caring providers can provide the guidance you need.
The urgent care centers are here to help 7 days a week, 365 days a year. To get started, find the center nearest you and walk in or save your spot online. We are here to help the whole family feel better.
References:
Medically reviewed by Dr. Betsy Koickel, MD on March 11th 2025.
