What are common symptoms of bronchitis in young children?

Cough and wheezing are hallmark symptoms of bronchitis in young children. In bronchitis, the airways become inflamed due to irritation or infection, leading to increased mucus production. This inflammation primarily affects the bronchi, resulting in a persistent cough that may be dry or productive. Wheezing, which is a high-pitched whistling sound during breathing, often occurs as a result of narrowed air passages, making it difficult for air to flow through the bronchi during respiration.

In contrast, symptoms such as fever and sore throat are more commonly associated with upper respiratory infections. Chest pain and itching are less typical of bronchitis in children, and nausea and vomiting are generally unrelated to bronchitis. Understanding these symptoms helps differentiate bronchitis from other respiratory or gastrointestinal issues, allowing for appropriate management and care.