“How do I know if my child has bronchitis?”

If he/she is coughing, perhaps with a fever

Bronchitis is the medical term for "inflammation of the bronchi," which are the large airways. Most coughs can be called "bronchitis," but that doesn't tell you the cause. Inflammation from things like smoke or dust in the air can cause bronchitis -- allergies can, too. Episodic bronchitis, especially associated w/fever, runny nose, etc., is likely from an acute viral infection. As with most things, identifying the cause of the symptom is crucial to picking the proper treatment. Your pediatrician can help you sort this out.

Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP