The purpose of this observational study is to identify the risk factors that make bronchiolitis more severe in infants and toddlers. Bronchiolitis is a common viral lung infection that causes inflammation and airway obstruction, often leading to breathing difficulties and hospitalization in young children.
Researchers will observe approximately 65 children, aged 1 to 24 months, who are admitted to Assiut University Hospital for acute bronchiolitis. Because this is an observational study, participants will receive standard medical care, and no experimental treatments will be tested.
During the hospital stay, researchers will collect information through parent questionnaires and standard medical records. The research team will gather data on:
* Family, social, and environmental factors, such as infant feeding practices, premature birth, and exposure to passive smoking.
* The child's clinical symptoms and overall severity of illness upon arrival at the hospital.
* Routine test results and the types of supportive care the child needs, such as extra oxygen or feeding assistance.
* The total length of the hospital stay and whether the child requires intensive care (ICU) admission.
By identifying which factors are most closely linked to severe illness, the study aims to help doctors better predict the course of the disease early on, evaluate adherence to treatment guidelines, and ultimately reduce the health burden of bronchiolitis.