Bronchiolitis obliterans happens when the lung cells cannot recover after an inflammation or infection, as in the case of flu or pneumonia, for example.
In these cases, the inflamed cells of the lung, instead of being replaced by new cells, die and form a scar, which hinders the passage of air. Thus, if there are several inflammations in the lung over time, the number of scars increases and the small channels of the lung, known as bronchioles, are destroyed, making breathing difficult.
Most of the time the initial symptoms of bronchiolitis obliterans are similar to any other lung problem, including:
- Wheezing when breathing; Feeling of shortness of breath; Persistent cough; Periods of low fever up to 38ºC;
These symptoms usually appear and disappear over several periods that can last for weeks or months. Although bronchiolitis obliterans is more common in babies due to a weaker immune system, it can also occur in adults, especially after lung transplantation, for example.
How to confirm the diagnosis
The diagnosis of this lung problem must be made by a pediatrician, in the case of babies and children, or pulmonologist, in the case of the adult.
Usually exams like chest X-ray or computed tomography are performed, and other more common problems, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, can be identified before reaching the diagnosis of obliterating bronchiolitis.
How the treatment is done
Bronchiolitis obliterans has no cure and, therefore, treatment is done to relieve symptoms and facilitate breathing. Thus, generally, the doctor prescribes the use of corticosteroids, such as Hydrocortisone or Betamethasone, which reduce inflammation in the lungs and reduce the amount of mucus, reducing the chances of new scars and facilitating the passage of air.
In addition, whenever it is possible to identify the cause of the problem, such as a lung infection, it is necessary to undergo treatment for the cause, in order to prevent it from continuing to cause lesions and scarring in the lung channels.
In children, follow-up by a nutritionist is also recommended because the effort to breathe consumes a large number of calories, which can hinder growth and development.
