Understanding Bronchitis

Understanding bronchitis is vital as it is caused by a virus such as a cold or the flu, and occasionally by bacterial infection. Most of the time, the infection goes away on its own within a couple of weeks. To lower the chances of getting it, you may follow some preventive measures. 

An Overview of Bronchitis

This occurs when your bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from your lungs, become inflamed, thickened mucus may appear discolored.   

The Two Types of Bronchitis

• Acute or Short-Term Bronchitis: A viral infection usually causes this. Episodes can be aggravated by smoking. The symptoms of this may last for 10 to 14 days.
• Chronic Bronchitis: A cough that produces sputum for at least two consecutive years that persists for three months out of the year. A cough and inflammation may occur when one is infected with a respiratory illness, exposed to tobacco smoke, or exposed to other irritating substances in the air. This also results in chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) when airflow is obstructed.

How To Tell If You Have Bronchitis?

You may tell if you have this if you have these symptoms:

• A hacking cough, which may bring up clear, yellow-grey, or greenish mucus (phlegm)
• A runny or blocked nose
• A sore throat
• A headache
• Aches and pains
• Tiredness

During Acute Bronchitis, you may have a cough that persists for a few weeks after other symptoms have disappeared. It may also cause soreness in your chest and stomach muscles if you cough continuously.

Is It Contagious?

It is common for Acute Bronchitis to be contagious because it tends to be caused by infection with a virus or bacteria. In most cases, Chronic Bronchitis results from long-term irritation of the airways, so it is not contagious. 

Can It Be Treated?

In some cases, it can be managed through rest and lots of fluids. Don’t be surprised if your doctor simply recommends it. Acute Bronchitis will often fade away on its own. Letting your body rest and drinking plenty of fluids may help it disappear more quickly.

Recommended medication:

Azithromycin – is an FDA-approved antibiotic that fights bacteria. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria and lessening your risk of developing it. 

Other treatments may include:

• A cough suppressant 
• Pain reliever
• Sleeping near a humidifier or sitting in a steamy bathroom
• Bronchodilators

Bronchitis Prevention Tips

• Washing the hands often to limit exposure to germs and bacteria
• Wearing a mask to cover the nose and mouth when pollution levels are high
• Avoiding or quitting smoking
• Asking about vaccinations to protect from pneumonia and the flu
• Avoiding lung irritants, such as dust, smoke, vapors, fumes, and air pollution