Summary about Disease
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the lungs. It causes coughing, often with mucus, and sometimes wheezing or shortness of breath. Bronchitis can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Acute bronchitis usually follows a viral infection, while chronic bronchitis is a persistent condition often caused by smoking.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include a persistent cough (which may produce mucus that is clear, white, yellowish-gray or green), sore throat, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest discomfort, fatigue, headache, body aches, and a low-grade fever.
Causes
Acute bronchitis is most often caused by viral infections, usually the same viruses that cause colds and the flu. Bacterial infections can also cause acute bronchitis, but they are less common. Chronic bronchitis is most often caused by cigarette smoking. Other irritants, such as air pollution, dust, and fumes, can also contribute to chronic bronchitis.
Medicine Used
Treatment for acute bronchitis often focuses on symptom relief. Medications include:
Cough suppressants: To ease coughing, although these are not always recommended as coughing helps clear mucus.
Pain relievers: Such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and aches.
Bronchodilators: (Inhalers) To open airways, especially if wheezing is present.
Antibiotics: Only prescribed if a bacterial infection is confirmed or suspected. For chronic bronchitis, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. This may include:
Bronchodilators: For long-term airway management.
Inhaled corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation.
Pulmonary rehabilitation: Exercise programs and education to improve breathing.
Oxygen therapy: If blood oxygen levels are low.
Is Communicable
Acute bronchitis caused by viral or bacterial infections is communicable. The viruses or bacteria can spread through airborne droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Chronic bronchitis is not communicable.
Precautions
Wash your hands frequently: To prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick: Especially if they have respiratory symptoms.
Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze: Use a tissue and dispose of it properly, or cough/sneeze into your elbow.
Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke: Irritants can exacerbate bronchitis.
Get vaccinated: Flu and pneumonia vaccines can help prevent respiratory infections that can lead to bronchitis.
Use a humidifier: Helps to keep the airways moist and loosen mucus.
How long does an outbreak last?
Acute bronchitis typically lasts for 1-3 weeks. The cough may persist for several weeks after other symptoms have resolved. Chronic bronchitis, by definition, is a long-term condition, with symptoms present for at least 3 months of the year for two consecutive years.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves a physical exam where a doctor listens to the lungs with a stethoscope. They may ask about your symptoms and medical history, especially regarding smoking. In some cases, additional tests may be ordered:
Chest X-ray: To rule out pneumonia or other lung conditions.
Sputum tests: To check for bacteria or viruses.
Pulmonary function tests: To assess lung function, particularly in cases of suspected chronic bronchitis.
Timeline of Symptoms
Days 1-3: Symptoms often start with a sore throat, runny nose, and fatigue, similar to a cold.
Days 3-7: Cough develops, often dry at first, then producing mucus. Other symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest discomfort may appear.
Weeks 2-3: Most symptoms begin to improve, although the cough may linger.
Beyond 3 weeks: If the cough persists longer than three weeks, it's important to see a doctor to rule out other conditions. Chronic bronchitis symptoms are persistent with acute flare ups
Important Considerations
Seek medical attention if you have a high fever, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or if your symptoms worsen or don't improve after a few weeks.
People with underlying lung conditions (such as asthma or COPD) are at higher risk for complications from bronchitis.
Chronic bronchitis can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia and respiratory failure. It is important to manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups.