What is the difference between chronic allergies and bronchitis, and what are their symptoms? During the winter and fall seasons, the risk of developing allergies and bronchitis increases, and their symptoms may overlap for some people. In this article, we will learn the difference between each in terms of symptoms, causes, and effective treatment methods.
What is chronic allergies
Chronic allergies are defined as an exaggerated response of the immune system to environmental irritants, such as dust or pollen. They usually do not cause any harm, but their symptoms persist during certain seasons or throughout the year.
What is bronchitis
Bronchiitis is an inflammation of the large airways in the lungs resulting from a bacterial or viral infection. It is characterized by a cough accompanied by phlegm and is common in immunocompromised individuals and newborns.
Symptoms of chronic allergies and bronchitis
The symptoms of chronic allergies vary depending on their type, and their symptoms affect the respiratory system. They include:
- Nasal congestion.
- Runny nose.
- Itchy nose and roof of mouth.
- Sinus infection and inflammation.
- Recurrent ear infections.
- Frequent sneezing.
- Watery eyes.
- Red eyes.
- Swelling of the eyelids.
- Hearing loss.
Symptoms of bronchitis include:
- Dry cough.
- Cough accompanied by phlegm.
- Clear, white, yellow, or green mucus.
- Headache.
- Body aches.
- Shortness of breath.
- Wheezing.
- Sore throat.
- Chest pain.
- General fatigue and exhaustion.
Causes of chronic allergies
Among the main causes of chronic allergies are irritants in the air (allergens):
- Pollen, which is the most common cause, especially in hot, dry climates.
- Dust mites, which live in house dust.
- Mold spores found in damp places.
- Pet dander.
What are the causes of bronchitis
Bronchiolitis, also known as bronchitis, occurs as a result of exposure to a bacterial or viral infection and often begins as the flu or a cold.
Other factors increase the risk of bronchitis, such as a weakened immune system, stomach disorders such as acid reflux, and smoking.
How to Get Rid of Chronic Allergies
Treatment of chronic allergies depends on:
- Medications prescribed by the treating physician, such as decongestants, antihistamines, and nasal steroids.
- Immunotherapy to treat severe allergies that do not respond to other medications.
- A doctor should be consulted to determine the type of allergy and the appropriate treatment plan.
- It is important to avoid triggers that increase the severity of allergies and reduce the chances of a rapid recovery.
What is the difference between chronic allergies and bronchitis
Chronic allergies are an immune response to certain triggers, such as pollen, and cause persistent symptoms. Bronchitis is a viral or bacterial infection that affects the airways, causing coughing and secretions accompanied by phlegm.
Treatment of Bronchitis
Treatment of bronchitis depends on its cause. The treating physician will prescribe the following medications and antibiotics:
- Antibiotics are prescribed for bacterial infections, and the physician determines the dosage according to the individual's condition.
- Bronchodilator medications help clear phlegm and relieve shortness of breath.
- Medications containing paracetamol and pain relievers to relieve symptoms such as fever.
Home remedies to relieve bronchitis
Home remedies and supportive treatments for treating and relieving bronchitis include:
- Drinking sufficient amounts of warm fluids, such as anise and caraway, which are effective in hydrating the body, loosening phlegm, and facilitating its expulsion.
- Inhaling steam or warm air to loosen secretions in the respiratory tract.
- Get enough rest and sleep for a speedy recovery.
Bronchiolitis in Children
Bronchiolitis is the most common illness in infants and children. It is an inflammation of the airways in the respiratory system responsible for delivering air to the lungs.
It is diagnosed using a stethoscope to examine the child's chest sounds, sputum, and lung function tests to check for allergies.
Medications for Treating Bronchitis in Children
If a child has bronchitis, the doctor will prescribe an appropriate antibiotic, along with other medications that treat cough and runny nose. They will prescribe:
- Antibiotic to eliminate bacterial infection.
- Antipyretic to reduce fever in cases of high fever.
- Steam inhalation sessions to dilate the airways.
- A syrup that dissolves phlegm and mucus and relieves severe coughing.
Summary of the difference between chronic allergies and bronchitis
Bronchiolitis, or bronchitis, is an infection of the large airways, usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection. It is accompanied by phlegm and a high body temperature.
Chronic allergies, on the other hand, are an exaggerated immune system reaction to allergens such as dust. They persist for long periods, with symptoms such as sneezing and itchy eyes, but do not cause fever.