Bronchitis
Bronchitis
Bronchitis is a respiratory tract infection causing inflammation of the airways leading to the lungs, particularly the
bronchi. It is categorized into two types: acute bronchitis and chronic bronchitis.
- Acute bronchitis is characterized by a sudden onset and short disease course, typically resulting from viral or bacterial infections of the respiratory tract. Environmental irritants like cigarette smoke, air pollution, and chemical vapors may exacerbate symptoms.
- Chronic bronchitis is defined by persistent symptoms lasting at least three months per year for two consecutive years, involving chronic bronchial inflammation and airway obstruction. It often results from long-term smoking and can worsen with infections or irritant exposure. Chronic bronchitis frequently coexists with
emphysema, where
alveolar walls are damaged.
Primary causes of bronchitis include smoking and prolonged exposure to air pollutants, leading to persistent airway irritation, inflammation, and excessive mucus production. This narrowing of the airways increases the risk of recurrent infections and progressive tissue damage.
Complications of Bronchitis
Prevention
- Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise to strengthen immunity.
- Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke exposure.
- Wear appropriate masks when exposed to dust or chemicals.
- Practice regular hand hygiene with soap and clean water.
- Receive recommended vaccinations, such as annual influenza vaccination.
Self-Management
- Rest and maintain adequate hydration.
- Use a humidifier to alleviate cough and loosen mucus.
- Cover your mouth with tissue or cloth when coughing or sneezing, and avoid coughing into your hands to prevent transmission to others.
When to See a Doctor
- Symptoms persist longer than three weeks.
- Body temperature exceeds 38°C.
- Mucus becomes discolored or blood-tinged.
- Wheezing, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing.
- Persistent coughing that disrupts sleep quality.
Treatment Options
1. Cough and Cold Preparations
- Opioid-derived cough suppressants:
- Codeine and
dextromethorphan directly suppress the cough center in the brain.
- Codeine requires a prescription and may cause drowsiness and
constipation.
- Dextromethorphan is widely used and typically does not cause significant sedation unless taken in high doses.
- Non-opioid cough suppressants:
- Expectorants:
- Mucolytics:
- Additional symptom relief:
2. Medications for Asthma and COPD
- Beta-2 agonists (e.g.,
bambuterol,
clenbuterol,
fenoterol,
formoterol,
salbutamol,
salmeterol,
terbutaline):
Act as bronchodilators to relieve airway constriction in bronchitis. These medications should only be used under medical supervision due to potential cardiovascular effects and the need for dosage adjustment.
- Methylxanthines (e.g., aminophylline,
theophylline): Serve as adjunct bronchodilators when beta-2 agonists are insufficient. Require close monitoring because of their narrow therapeutic window and risk of adverse effects.
- Anticholinergics (e.g.,
ipratropium bromide): Used via inhalation to reduce bronchospasm by inhibiting parasympathetic stimulation of the airways. Often combined with other bronchodilators for enhanced effect.
3. Antibiotics
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