Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis

        Chronic bronchitis can be defined as the presence of chronic cough and a high an amount of sputum production for at least 3 month per year for at least 2 consecutive years. When talking about chronic bronchitis we talk about a progressive airway obstruction, not reversible which is due to smoking. With time the bronchial three becomes more rigid, deforms itself and this leads to retention of secretion.

        A productive cough is the feature of chronic bronchitis while dry cough particularly at night can be a symptom of asthma. Those who suffer from chronic bronchitis have a tickling sensation in their throat and cough which can be induced by changes of air temperature, perfumes and cigarette smoke. One may experience shortness of breathing which makes nourishment difficult. Cough and sputum persists changing its color from clear to yellow or green, however yellow sputum is not necessary due to an infection. When suffering from chronic bronchitis the person has the tendency to develop acute bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis may also cause: disability, frequent respiratory infections, narrowing and plugging of the breathing tubes.

        The room of those suffering from bronchitis must be provided with a humidifier as it helps to decrease bronchial irritation. The room must also be aerated periodically. The person should also avoid pollution and smoke. The most common irritating factors are: alcohol, smoke, irritating vapors from the chemical industry, atmospheric conditions such as cold and humidity.

        Chronic bronchitis is preventable through eliminating a long term exposure to smoke. The patient must be encouraged to quit smoking. Usually this disease tends to be neglected for a long time as the general state of the patent is good. If it is neglected and untreated it becomes persistent and in several years it leads to severe complications. This complication affects the heart and the lungs. It is highly recommended that he sees a doctor as this type of bronchitis can be easily confused with pneumonia or asthma.

        The treatment should be prescribed only by a doctor and taken under the supervision of a doctor. Few of the people who suffer from this disease need hospitalization, only in extreme cases. The disease ameliorates in a couple of months and the first signs of amelioration can be seen in 30 days. The disease can also be ameliorated by doing respiratory exercises and also physical exercises.

        The treatment should be prescribed only be a physician taking into account the medical history of the person , the age, the extent of the disease and the tolerance of specific medications, expectations of the course of the disease.