What is Bronchitis
Bronchitis is a condition that causes inflammation to the linings of the lung's airways.
The inflammation results in a productive cough, wheezing and trouble in breathing.
There are two main types of bronchitis:
Acute and Chronic
Acute bronchitis typically forms following an upper respiratory infection, such as cold and lasts for a few days or weeks.
Chronic bronchitis develops over time. It is persistent and never entirely goes off.
Definition of Bronchitis
Chronic Bronchitis causes inflammation and mucus production in the bronchi, which are airways in the lungs.
The inflammation and mucus cause a productive cough and make it difficult for a person to breathe.
Unlike acute Bronchitis, chronic bronchitis lasts for atleast 3 months at a time and repeatedly recurs over 2 years, accordingly to knowledgeable sources.
Smoking can increase a person's risk of developing chronic bronchitis.
According to the American Lung Association, chronic bronchitis and emphysema are the two conditions that commonly comprise chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
As per reports, as many 74% of people diagnosed with COPD have chronic bronchitis.
Currently, there is no cure for chronic bronchitis.
However, treatments can help manage symptoms and allow for more natural breathing.
Causes of Bronchitis
Chronic bronchitis develops over time. '
In most cases, it is the result of long-term or frequent exposure to irritants or small particles that cause damage to the lungs.
According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, the most common cause of chronic bronchitis in the United States of America is cigaratte and tobacco smoking,
In addition to smoking, prolonged exposure to secondhand smoke or passive smoking, fumes or other pollutants can lead to chronic bronchitis.
Risk factors
Several potential risk factors for chronic bronchitis include:
- Smoking: females who may be at more risk than males who smoke
- Childhood respiratory disease
- Family history of lung disease
- Exposure to pollutants
- Asthma
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Older people
Symptoms
Chronic bronchitis causes a persistent productive cough due to the increased amount of mucus in the lungs and airways.
In addition to a cough, a person may experience shortness of breath or wheezing as a result of inflamed airways.
Besides, other symptoms of chronic bronchitis may include:-
- Low fever
- Chest pain
- Sore throat
- Body aches
- Headaches
- Blocked nose and sinuses
Diagnosis
Only a doctor can diagnose chronic bronchitis. A doctor will typically perform a physical examination, using a stethoscope to listen for unusual sounds in the lungs.
The affected person will be asked about their symptoms whether he/she had a productive cough that
- has lasted several weeks / months
- has occured multiple times over 2 years
Whether the affected persons are used to
smoking
have had exposure to passive or second hand smoke, dust, fumes or air pollution
have a family history of lung disease.
The Medical consultant may order additional tests which include
- blood tests
- lung function tests
- chest xrays
Treatments
To treat chronic bronchitis, a Medical Consultant may prescribe:
- the flue and pneumococcal pneumonia vaccines to prevent other respiratory infections.
- bronchodilators - typically inhaled medication that relaxes the muscles around the airways to help improve breathing.
- steroids to help open the lungs
In addition to the above, the Medical Consultant may recommend Oxygen therapy or Pulmonary rehabilitation.
Some steps a person can take to help reduce symptoms of chronic bronchitis at home include:
- avoiding passive or second hand smoke and irritants
- quit smoking permanently
- follow a balanced and nutritious diet
- getting regular exercise
- using a humidifier
Prevention
Though a person can take steps to reduce their risk factors, they may not be able to prevent chronic bronchitis.
People can reduce their risk of developing chronic bronchitis by kicking off their smoking habit and never re-start their smoking habit.
People can also take steps to protect their lungs when working with potentially dangerous chemicals or around air pollutants.
Eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and maintaining n active lifestyle can help improve overall lung function and keep a person healthier.
Courtesy: Medical news Today
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