Bronchitis

🌬️ Bronchitis

Bronchitis is the inflammation of the bronchial tubes—the airways that carry air to and from your lungs. It leads to swelling and increased mucus production, resulting in cough and breathing difficulty.

📋 Types of Bronchitis

🦠 Causes

Acute Bronchitis

• Viral infections (most common) — similar to a cold or flu
• Bacterial infections (less common)
• Often follows an upper respiratory infection

Chronic Bronchitis

• Smoking (most common cause)
• Long-term exposure to air pollutants, chemical fumes, or dust

🔍 Symptoms

Common to Both Types:

• Persistent cough
• Production of mucus (clear, white, yellow, or green)
• Chest discomfort or tightness
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Fatigue
• Low-grade fever (more common in acute bronchitis)

🔸 In chronic bronchitis, symptoms come and go but never fully resolve.

🩺 Diagnosis

• Medical history and physical exam (listening for wheezing or crackles)
• Chest X-ray (to rule out pneumonia)
• Sputum test (to check for bacterial infection)
• Pulmonary function tests (for chronic bronchitis/COPD)

💊 Treatment

Acute Bronchitis

• Usually resolves on its own (7–10 days)
• Rest, fluids, and OTC medications (acetaminophen, ibuprofen)
• Cough suppressants (if cough interferes with sleep)
• Bronchodilators (in some cases)
• Antibiotics only if a bacterial infection is suspected

Chronic Bronchitis

• Smoking cessation (most important)
• Bronchodilators and inhalers
• Steroids (inhaled or oral, to reduce inflammation)
• Oxygen therapy (in severe cases)
• Pulmonary rehabilitation
• Vaccinations (flu and pneumonia)

🛡️ Prevention

• Avoid smoking
• Limit exposure to dust, fumes, and air pollution
• Wash hands frequently to prevent viral infections
• Stay updated with flu and pneumococcal vaccines

🔄 Prognosis

• Acute bronchitis usually goes away without complications.
• Chronic bronchitis is progressive and incurable, but symptoms can be managed with long-term care.