What is chronic bronchitis?
Chronic bronchitis is a respiratory condition where the bronchial tube lining is inflamed. Bronchial tubes are part of the airways that transport oxygen to AZ lungs. Chronic bronchitis may arise from bacterial or viral infection or more often from irritants such as smoking. Chronic bronchitis is a health condition classified as obstructive pulmonary disease. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) also includes an emphysema. In addition, bacterial or viral respiratory infections may often occur and be accompanied by a serious productive cough. Productive cough is a cough that produces or is accompanied by mucus secretory. Chronic inflammation can occasionally proceed to the bronchial tube, which usually produces excess mucus. Over time, the airways can be permanently scarred.
Many times, symptoms of chronic bronchitis will wax and decrease. As a result, the patient is susceptible to bacterial or viral infections due to the risk of acute superposition BRonchitis. Chronic bronchitis is usually a serious health condition. Although smoking is the main risk factor, other factors such as air pollution can be projected. Another risk factor for chronic bronchitis may be reflux disease. This refers to the flow of stomach acids into the esophageal area.
In general, chronic bronchitis treatment may include antibiotics and cough drugs. Antibiotics will not usually be administered for bronchitis caused by viral infection. Antibiotics are only effective for bacterial infections and are ineffective against viruses. Usually it is not recommended to prescribe drugs suppressing cough because cough helps in the process of removal of mucus from the lungs. However, if the cough keeps the patient upwards, a suppressing substance may be suitable.
In addition to antibiotics and cough products, the doctor may recommend using a bronchial inhaler. These inhalation drugs open the narrowed passagesin the lungs and can reduce inflammation. In addition to drugs, treatment such as lung therapy may be effective in releasing and exclusion of viscous lung secretions. The respiratory therapist can help the patient with respiratory exercises that can help him breathe better.
Many times, however, the only treatment needed for bronchitis is to rest, drink lots of fluids and use of over -the -counter medicines. To supplement these treatments, the evaporator may be used to thin the secretion and help the patient to project mucus. Before the patient begins with treatment, it is reasonable for him to first see his doctor for a comprehensive medical evaluation.