“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Bronchitis is a condition that occurs when the bronchial tubes, which are responsible for carrying air to and from the lungs, become inflamed and produce excessive mucus. This inflammation can cause a persistent cough, often accompanied by chest discomfort and difficulty breathing. There are two types of bronchitis: acute and chronic.
Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a viral infection, such as the common cold or flu, and usually resolves within a few weeks. Symptoms of acute bronchitis include:
Chronic bronchitis is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that is characterized by a persistent cough that lasts for at least three months out of the year for two or more consecutive years. This type of bronchitis is usually caused by long-term exposure to cigarette smoke, air pollution or other irritants.
Symptoms of chronic bronchitis include:
Diagnosis of bronchitis may involve a physical exam, medical history, and various tests, such as chest X-rays, blood tests or pulmonary function tests.
Treatment for acute bronchitis usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms, such as cough suppressants or pain relievers. Antibiotics may be prescribed if the infection is bacterial in nature. Treatment for chronic bronchitis involves managing symptoms and preventing complications, such as respiratory infections or worsening lung function. This may include lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, and medications, such as bronchodilators or corticosteroids.
Prevention of bronchitis involves reducing the risk of respiratory infections, such as through vaccination and good hygiene practices, and avoiding exposure to irritants, such as cigarette smoke or air pollution.