Asthma and Bronchiolitis, both illnesses of the respiratory system, manifest themselves in children in very similar ways. Both illnesses cause wheezing, coughing and choking. If your child is in respiratory distress, it can be confusing and hard to tell whether your child is having an asthma attack or acute bronchiolitis. The treatments for asthma and bronchiolitis are different, so knowing the differences between the two are imperative. If your child is in respiratory distress, always seek medical attention or call 911 immediately.
Age
In an asthma emergency, the child is usually older than 2. In bronchiolitis, the child is usually under 2.
Temperature
Temperature is one of the key factors in determining if your child might be having an asthma attack or bronchiolitis. In asthma the temperature is normal; bronchiolitis typically is accompanied by a fever.
Allergies
It is typical for children with asthma to also have other allergies, while children suffering from bronchiolitis generally do not have other allergies.
Family History
Asthma usually runs in families, either on the maternal or paternal lines. Bronchiolitis does not run in families.
Response to Medicine
Asthma will respond to medicines, such as the Epi-pen or an antihistamine. If your child has bronchiolitis, will not improve when given these medications.
Tags: your child, asthma attack, Asthma Bronchiolitis, , child respiratory distress