Bronchitis is a health condition affecting the respiratory tract and is usually the result of inflammation or inflammation of the bronchi, which prevents the transport of inhaled air to the air sacs called alveoli. This condition is characterized by the mucous layer lining the bronchi from the inside thickening and producing more mucus, which makes it difficult for airflow to freely reach the alveoli.
Bronchitis can be divided into two main types:
Acute Bronchitis:
It is usually caused by infections caused by germs such as viruses or bacteria or allergic reactions. Improvement is seen when infections are treated or allergens are removed from the environment.
Chronic Bronchitis:
It develops due to long-term factors such as smoking habits and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In chronic bronchitis, bronchial walls thicken and mucus production increases, but this condition is more prolonged than acute bronchitis and requires treatment.
Causes of Bronchitis:
Most acute bronchitis is caused by viruses, but in some cases bacteria such as Mycoplasma, Chlamydia pneumoniae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Moraxella catarrhalis and Haemophilus influenza can also be responsible. Cigarette smoke, air pollution, chemical vapors and allergens can also cause acute bronchitis. The most common cause of chronic bronchitis is smoking, but air pollution and prolonged exposure to dust or toxic gases can also cause chronic bronchitis.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of both acute and chronic bronchitis may include:
Deep cough with phlegm
Shortness of breath and wheezing
Acute bronchitis may also have the following symptoms:
Yellow or green sputum
Fire
Symptoms of infection such as nasal congestion, sore throat, headache
In chronic bronchitis, the following may also occur:
Frequent recurrent severe lung infections
Cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin)
Constant fatigue
Shortness of breath during exercise or movement
Diagnostic Methods:
The diagnosis of bronchitis is based on the patient’s symptoms, medical history and physical examination. Some diagnostic tests may include:
Blood tests
Sputum test
Spirometer (breathing test)
Arterial blood gas analysis
Lung X-ray
Computed tomography (CT) scan
Treatment Methods:
Treatment of bronchitis can vary depending on the underlying causes. Antibiotics can be used in bacterial bronchitis, but antibiotics are usually ineffective in viral bronchitis. Medications that relax the bronchi and reduce mucus production can be used to relieve symptoms and prevent the disease from progressing. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding allergens and quitting smoking can also contribute to treatment. Chronic bronchitis may require long-term treatment and sometimes antibiotics may be used.
Bronchitis is a condition that affects the respiratory tract and may require medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment. It is important for people with symptoms to contact a health professional.
