Bronchitis Overview

Bronchitis is the inflammation of the mucous membrane of the bronchi. The latter help in the passage of air from the trachea into the lungs. Bronchitis is divided into two types such as Acute and Chronic. Acute bronchitis refers to the development of cough, in addition to the production of mucous and sputum in the respiratory tact. Whereas, chronic bronchitis suggests a chronic pulmonary obstruction disease which persists for more than three months in a human being. Pollution and smoking are one of the main causes behind this disease.

Various viruses such as influenza A and B causes bronchitis. Some bacteria like Mycoplasma pneumoniae also play a big role in causing the disease. Older people, infants, heart patients, lungs patients, and smokers are most likely to get affected by this disease easily. People working in coal mining and stone crushing can also suffer from this disease.

Bronchitis, if not treated, finally results in pneumonia which could prove fatal. It leads to the development of emphysema, heart failure or pulmonary hypertension. It also affects the efficiency of lung tissues. Sometimes, acute bronchitis results in asthma, causing serious respiratory problems. Bronchitis only affects the inner working of the respiratory system, lungs and heart. It makes the lung so weak that it becomes unable to pump out air at the expected rate as bronchitis slows down the lung functioning. It causes the bronchial tube to release mucous. By infecting the bronchial tube, it causes the glands to scar and permanently ruins the bronchial linings which causes serious breathing problems. Women, when compared to men, are more prone to this disease.

The main causes of bronchitis could be bacteria, virus and the particles that hamper the functioning of bronchial tubes, such as smoking, pollution etc. The viruses that cause flu and fever are also responsible for bronchitis. Bronchitis can be considered to occur as the result of the over activity of the immune system. When the immune system fights against some infections, it generates mucous which is easily susceptible to viral and bacterial infections. Smoking tobacco and inhaling contaminated air can cause acute bronchitis. Air pollution, dust, toxic gases, industrial fumes can cause chronic bronchitis if inhaled for a long period of time.

The symptoms of bronchitis include chest pain, fatigue, low fever, breathing issues, wheezing, coughing, bronchial swelling and a running nose. Bronchitis could be confirmed by undergoing some tests. Chest X-rays can be done to get a clear picture. Testing the sputum sample also helps to diagnose this disease. A spirometer test can diagnose bronchitis. If some symptoms of the disease are detected, one needs to undergo blood tests and oxygen saturation measurements to confirm its presence.

Bronchitis can be prevented by following some precautions such as avoiding smoking, avoiding contact with people suffering from cold and flu, and avoiding the onset of a cold. Getting yearly flu vaccines, avoiding tobacco and washing hands can also help.

Acute bronchitis can be cured with timely and efficient treatment in a week or two. But there is no cure for chronic bronchitis. Acute bronchitis can be cured by breathing warm and moist air, increasing fluids in your diet, taking counter cough suppressants, and pain relievers. If it still persists, one might visit a doctor who might prescribe antibiotics, cough medicines, mucolytics, or anti inflammatory medicines.