A study on the effectiveness of various treatment approaches for bronchiolitis

Bronchiolitis is a major cause of hospitalisation in infants, and its management varies widely across clinical settings. This observational study, conducted at SVS Medical College & Hospital over six months with 80 patients, assessed treatment patterns and outcomes. Bronchiolitis was most common in infants aged 5–8 months, with a higher incidence in males and rural populations, and mild disease was predominant. Treatment showed significant variation: intravenous fluids, especially dextrose normal saline with potassium supplementation, were frequently used to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance; parenteral antibiotics such as Augmentin were selectively administered when bacterial infection was suspected; and oral therapies including paracetamol, ambroxol, and vitamin D3 drops provided symptomatic relief. Saline nasal drops were universally prescribed, highlighting their essential role in airway clearance, while nebulised budesonide and salbutamol were used occasionally depending on severity. Heated Humidified High-Flow Nasal Cannula (HHHFNC) therapy was identified as the main supportive intervention, enhancing oxygenation and reducing respiratory distress. Overall, the combination of parenteral fluids, oral medications, nasal saline drops, and supportive care led to shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery, whereas reliance solely on supportive care and saline drops without targeted therapies was associated with extended hospitalisation. These findings emphasise the importance of integrated, evidence-based management strategies in bronchiolitis.