What is Bronchitis?
Bronchitis is a common infection of the main airways of the lungs,
causing inflammation and irritation to the mucus membrane of the lungs. The
irritated membrane, which has become swollen and thicker, causes the airways to
narrow.
There are
three forms of bronchitis: Acute (can last up to three weeks) and chronic (can
last at least 3 months to two years). The third one is called asthmatic
bronchitis, and refers to the incidence of acute bronchitis in a person with
asthma. Asthma is an inflammatory condition that tightens the muscles around
the airways and makes them swell, which cause airways to narrow.
There are several causes for acute bronchitis. In most cases, the
infection is viral in origin, but sometimes it's caused by bacteria. Lung
infection causes acute bronchitis in 90% of the cases. Another cause is
industrial pollution, but the main cause for acute bronchitis is heavy smoking.
When suffering from repeated acute bronchitis, this can result in chronic bronchitis.
Bronchitis Symptoms
The symptoms of bronchitis can be split into two
subdivisions: Symptoms of acute bronchitis and symptoms of chronic bronchitis.
Acute bronchitis is an acute illness with coughing being the main
symptom, and at least one other symptom such as wheezing, sputum production, or chest pain.
Other symptoms may include:
·
sore throat
·
discolouration
of the mucus (yellow or green)
·
headache
·
runny or
blocked nose
·
aches and
pains
·
tiredness
·
fever
The coughing may persist, even when other symptoms
have gone.
Chronic bronchitis: Symptoms of chronic bronchitis, often known as chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD), may include wheezing and shortness of breath. The
cough is usually worse in the morning and the mucus may have a yellow or green
discolouration and specks of blood
Other symptoms may include:
·
wheezing
·
a persistent
cough
·
increasing
breathlessness when moving
·
recurring
chest infections
·
Increased
mucus production
·
fatigue
·
sore throat
·
headaches
·
blocked nose
It is common to have several flare-ups a year and
the symptoms are usually worse in the winter.
Asthmatic bronchitis: The symptoms of asthmatic bronchitis are a mix of the symptoms of
asthma and bronchitis. You may experience some or all of the following
symptoms:
·
Wheezing
·
Cough
·
Shortness of
breath
·
Increased
mucus production
·
Chest
tightness
Seeking Advice When Showing Symptoms of Bronchitis
In
the case of acute bronchitis, which is very common, the symptoms of bronchitis
can usually be treated effectively without the need for professional medical
assistance. However, if you have high fever for a prolonged time, you cough up
blood, or have other severe symptoms, you should seek medical advice.
In the event of chest pains, or if you have trouble breathing, seek medical
help promptly. If you suffer from chronic bronchitis, you should make sure you
are seen by a doctor on a regular basis, as you are in danger of developing heart problems as
well as more serious lung diseases
