What is bronchitis and how is it treated, Bronchitis is a respiratory condition affecting the airways that carry air to the lungs, causing them to swell and produce more mucus.
Bronchitis is divided into two main types, acute, caused by viral infections and known as temporary, which appears suddenly, and chronic, long-term, resulting from continuous irritation such as air pollution or smoking.
The inflammation causes several symptoms, including difficulty breathing and coughing. Acute cases usually improve within a few days, while chronic bronchitis requires ongoing monitoring.
Types of Bronchitis
Bronchitis is divided into two main types:
Acute bronchitis, which is the most common type and occurs as a result of viral infections such as the common cold and influenza. Symptoms usually resolve within 7-10 days with home remedies.
Chronic bronchitis, which is a persistent and chronic inflammation that damages the bronchial tissues, causing the affected person to suffer from a persistent cough with phlegm.
What are the causes of bronchitis
Bronchitis is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection of the respiratory system. It is transmitted through exposure to droplets produced by the cough or sneeze of an infected person. Other causes include allergies and respiratory irritants.
Factors that increase the risk of bronchitis include genetics and age. Children and the elderly are more susceptible. Asthma, allergies, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) also increase the risk, as GERD irritates the throat and increases susceptibility. Smoking is another contributing factor.
Symptoms of Bronchitis
Common symptoms of acute (temporary) bronchitis include:
- Sore throat.
- Fever.
- Children's chills.
- Extreme fatigue.
- Runny or blocked nose.
- Body aches and pains.
Symptoms of chronic bronchitis include:
- White or clear mucus.
- Shortness of breath.
- Cough.
- Chest pressure.
- Chest discomfort.
- Wheezing.
Treatment of Bronchitis
The treating physician will prescribe several medications to relieve symptoms and treat the underlying cause of the inflammation:
- Pain relievers containing ibuprofen and paracetamol to reduce fever and pain associated with bronchitis.
- Medications that thin accumulated mucus, making it easier to expel during coughing.
- Cough suppressants, especially for troublesome nighttime coughs.
- Bronchodilator medications to improve breathing.
- Antibiotics to treat bacterial infections and prevent future infections.
Medications that treat bronchitis
- Noctorelief tablets.
- Bisolvon tablets.
- Infectocure tablets.
- Mukemi capsules.
- Ventocough syrup.
- Floxguard tablets.
- Cevilene oral drops.
- Isilin syrup.
Tips for Preventing Bronchitis
The following tips can help reduce your risk of developing bronchitis:
- Avoid allergens such as dust and pollen.
- Get vaccinated against influenza, COVID-19, and pneumonia.
- Quit smoking.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Follow a healthy diet.
- Wear a mask when going to crowded places.
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids.
Complications of Bronchitis
Complications of acute (temporary) bronchitis include:
- Pneumonia, a common complication that occurs when the infection spreads to the air sacs.
- Chronic bronchitis, which occurs when acute bronchitis recurs, especially in smokers.
- Pneumothorax, a rare complication that occurs in the elderly.
Complications of chronic bronchitis include
- Respiratory failure, where oxygen levels drop and carbon dioxide levels rise in the lungs.
- Worsening of chronic diseases such as diabetes and asthma.
- Cardiopulmonary disease.
Chronic pneumonia. Is bronchitis dangerous
Yes, bronchitis is considered dangerous if it is chronic and causes difficulty breathing and oxygen deficiency. The level of danger varies depending on the case and the cause of the infection, and some severe cases require medical attention.
Article Summary
Bronchitis is a condition that affects the bronchial tubes that carry air to the lungs, causing them to swell and become irritated. Mucus accumulates in these tubes, becoming thick. Some symptoms of bronchitis include coughing, phlegm buildup, and difficulty breathing.
There are two types of bronchitis: acute (temporary) and chronic (persistent). Acute cases usually improve within a few days, while chronic bronchitis requires ongoing monitoring.