What are typical symptoms of bronchiolitis in infants?

Bronchiolitis is a common respiratory condition that primarily affects infants and is typically caused by viral infections, most commonly respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The key symptoms associated with bronchiolitis in infants include cough, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.

Cough is often one of the earliest symptoms and may progress in severity as the condition develops. Wheezing, which is a high-pitched whistling sound made during breathing, occurs due to inflammation and narrowing of the smaller airways in the lungs. Difficulty breathing, or respiratory distress, is also characteristic of bronchiolitis as infants may exhibit signs like rapid breathing, flaring nostrils, and retractions of the chest wall.

In contrast, other options do present symptoms, but they are not representative of bronchiolitis. For instance, symptoms like fever, vomiting, and diarrhea typically indicate gastrointestinal issues or other infections rather than respiratory problems; while rash, sneezing, and runny nose are more common in allergic reactions or upper respiratory infections. Headache, fatigue, and fever do not align with the typical presentation of bronchiolitis, as this condition specifically affects the lower respiratory tract, leading to the more hallmark symptoms highlighted.