Bronchitis Treatment
Description
Introduction
Bronchitis is an inflammation or swelling of the bronchial tubes (bronchi), the air passages between the mouth and nose and the lungs.
More specifically, bronchitis describes a condition where the lining of the bronchial tubes becomes inflamed.
Individuals with bronchitis have a reduced ability to breathe air and oxygen into their lungs; also, they cannot clear heavy mucus or phlegm from their airways.
Causes
Bronchitis is normally caused by viruses, typically those that also cause colds and flu.
It can also be caused by bacterial infection and exposure to substances that irritate the lungs, such as tobacco smoke, dust, fumes, vapours, and air pollution.
Smoking is the most common causes of bronchitis, with other causes including long-term exposure to air pollution, dust and fumes from the environment, and repeated episodes of acute bronchitis.
Symptoms:
The Following are major signs and Symptoms:
Persistent cough, which may produce mucus
Wheezing
Low fever and chills
Chest tightening
Sore throat
Body aches
Breathlessness
Headaches
Blocked nose and sinuses
One of the main symptoms of bronchitis is a cough that lasts for several weeks. It can sometimes last for several months if the bronchial tubes take a long time to heal fully.
It is common for the symptoms of bronchitis to get worse two or more times every year, and they are often worse during the winter months.