Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from lungs. People who have bronchitis often cough up thickened mucus, which can be discolored. Bronchitis may be either acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a virus and goes away on its own. Chronic bronchitis never really goes away but can be managed.
Viruses are the most common cause of acute bronchitis. Smoke and other irritants can cause acute and chronic bronchitis.
Often developing from a cold or other respiratory infection, acute bronchitis is very common. Chronic bronchitis, a more serious condition, is a constant irritation or inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, often due to smoking.
Acute bronchitis-it is a temporary condition and also called a chest cold, usually improves within a week to 10 days without lasting effectsand Most people don’t need treatment for acute bronchitis.
Chronic bronchitis-
In this condition patient have a cough with mucus most days of the month for three months out of the year. This goes on for at least two years so patient may have chronic bronchitis, which requires medical attention. Chronic bronchitis is one of the conditions included in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Symptoms-
Either acute bronchitis or chronic bronchitis, signs and symptoms may include-
• Persistent Cough
• Mucus (sputum)- it can be clear, white, yellowish-gray or green in color — rarely, it may be streaked with blood
• Fatigue(tiredness)
• Shortness of breath(dyspnea)
• Slight fever and chills
• Runny nose
• Chest discomfort
If patient have acute bronchitis and might have cold symptoms, such as a mild headache or body aches. While these symptoms usually improve in a week.
Chronic bronchitis is defined as a productive cough that lasts at least three months.
Causes-
Infectious and noninfectious causes of bronchitis include-
Acute bronchitis is usually caused by viruses and The most common cause of chronic bronchitis is cigarette smoking.
• Viruses- Viruses that cause bronchitis include influenza, adenovirus, rhinovirus and coronavirus.
• Bacteria -Bordetella pertussis, Mycoplasma pneumonia and Chlamydia pneumonia.
• Air Pollution and dust or toxin gases in the environment.
• Smoking cigarettes or marijuana (cannabis).
Risk factors-
• Cigarette smoke
• Weak immune system
• Exposure to irritants
• Gastric reflux- Repeated bouts of severe heartburn can irritate patient throat and make more prone to developing bronchitis.
Complications-
pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Prevention
Avoid cigarette smoke.
vaccination
wash your hands frequently and get in the habit of using alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
• Wear a surgical mask
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