With changing weather, it is common and routine to come across various respiratory illnesses such as cold, flu, bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, tonsillitis and allergies in general. The names sound quite familiar, but when asked what each one is, few people actually know.

What is bronchitis?

Bronchitis is the inflammation of the inner lining of the bronchi, which are responsible for carrying air to the lungs. This inflammation can be acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis is more common and is caused by infectious agents such as viruses and bacteria.

Signs of Bronchitis

This illness can be accompanied by another viral infection like a flu, and can lead to fever, malaise, and shortness of breath. This is because the inflammation in the bronchial mucosa makes the air passages narrower, making it difficult to breathe.

Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is caused by agents that irritate the mucosa such as cigarettes and pollution. Smokers or people who are constantly exposed to dust, smoke, and chemical agents are more likely to develop chronic bronchitis.

Asthmatic Bronchitis

Asthmatic bronchitis, also known as allergic bronchitis, is also a chronic form of the disease. Genetic factors are involved in the causes of asthmatic bronchitis. So, even though it is not transmitted through the air or anything like that, the condition can be passed from parents to children and so on through generations. In addition to genetics, allergy-provoking factors account for about 80% of people who suffer from this condition. The most common allergenic agents are:

  • Presence of dust mites in mattresses and pillows;
  • Bedding, dust and dirt;
  • Pollution;
  • Animal hair;
  • Pollen;
  • Cigarettes;
  • Strong perfumes and the smell of cleaning products.

A third possibility is the onset of asthmatic bronchitis in people who suffer from reflux.

Is Bronchitis Contagious?

The acute form is, since it is an infection caused by viruses or bacteria. It can be contracted directly through saliva, contaminated environments, or air. The chronic form is not, as mentioned above, and can be caused by different factors.

Who is More Susceptible?

  • Elderly people, children, and babies
  • People with low immunity
  • Those who suffer from gastric reflux
  • Smokers
  • Prolonged contact with irritating polluting agents

What Are the Symptoms of Bronchitis?

Generally, the symptoms of both acute and chronic bronchitis start like a cold and gradually worsen. There is a constant dry cough, which may turn into a cough with phlegm if the infection is caused by bacteria. Other symptoms include wheezing, difficulty breathing, and chest discomfort.

How is Bronchitis Diagnosed?

Normally, just listening to the lungs (using a stethoscope) and a chest X-ray are enough to diagnose bronchitis, but if needed, the doctor may also request:

  • Oximetry (to measure oxygen levels)
  • Sputum exam (phlegm test)
  • Lung function test (Spirometry)

How is Bronchitis Treated?

The vast majority of cases of bronchitis resolve on their own without the need for medication, and symptoms disappear in about two weeks. Sometimes the doctor may prescribe specific medications such as:

  • Cough syrups and expectorants
  • Antibiotics, in the case of bacterial infections; most often, it is caused by a virus.
  • Antihistamines
  • Medications for other respiratory diseases like asthma (if necessary)
  • Inhalation therapy

Pregnant with Bronchitis: What to Do?

The first step is to seek medical help—the doctor will assess your case and prescribe treatment according to your history and condition. Remember that during pregnancy, the use of any medication is not recommended without medical supervision. Talk to your obstetrician.

My Child Has Bronchitis, Now What?

The pediatrician is the doctor who will make the initial diagnosis; if another medical specialty is needed, the pediatrician will refer to a pulmonologist. Acute bronchitis does not require drastic treatment, just rest and fluid intake to thin the mucus. Additionally, a syrup may be prescribed to relieve the cough. Younger babies are unable to cough properly to expel mucus, so inhalation is necessary, as well as cleaning the airways with saline. The phlegm is eliminated in the stool.

What is the Difference Between Bronchitis and Bronchiolitis?

Bronchitis affects children, adults, and the elderly, whereas bronchiolitis is more common in babies from newborns up to 3 years old. Bronchiolitis affects the bronchiole, which is the smallest part of the lung, at the end of the respiratory tract. The symptoms are usually the same: it starts with a mild cold and leads to difficulty breathing.

How to Prevent Bronchitis

The best way to prevent bronchitis is to:

  • Maintain good hygiene habits, washing your hands frequently.
  • Avoid closed and crowded places, reduce exposure to air pollution and chemical agents that can irritate the lungs;
  • Do not smoke;
  • Get recommended vaccines for flu and pneumonia

Is Bronchitis Curable?

In most cases and situations, bronchitis is curable. Only in isolated cases involving the elderly, people with chronic heart or lung diseases, and smokers can the disease become chronic.

Use of Natural Remedies

Natural remedies can relieve symptoms and there is no harm in using them. You can eat plenty of fruits rich in vitamin C, drink warm teas to relieve cough, and honey (not recommended for children under 1 year old). In addition, drinking plenty of fluids is essential for a quick recovery. Also See: Pneumonia in Children – How to Detect? Photos: BruceBlaus, Coltsfan