Bronchitis Treated by Top Pulmonologists at Mercy
Bronchitis occurs when the tubes that bring air to and from your lungs become swollen and filled with mucus, making it difficult to breathe.
There are two types of bronchitis: acute and chronic.
Acute Bronchitis
Acute bronchitis can last from one to three weeks and is most often caused by a virus.
Chronic Bronchitis
Chronic bronchitis is a serious lung disorder. You may have chronic bronchitis if you experience a cough (with mucus) that lasts for at least three months, two years in a row.
Risk Factors
Consistent exposure to particles like smoke and dust can damage your airways’ cilia, the tiny, hair-like structures that line your cells and eliminate irritants. Without properly functioning cilia, your airways become more susceptible to these irritants—which include viruses that can cause bronchitis.
So, while anyone can develop bronchitis, these factors increase your risk:
Bronchitis symptoms include:
- Persistent, aggravated cough
- Excessive mucus
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Discomfort in chest
Chronic bronchitis can be diagnosed via:
- Chest X-ray
- Pulmonary function test
- Oxygen level test
Acute Bronchitis
Acute bronchitis usually clears up on its own, though your doctor may prescribe or suggest the following to relieve symptoms:
- Antiviral medication
- Cough suppressants
Chronic Bronchitis
There is no cure for chronic bronchitis, so the goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms and to prevent complications.
In cases of severe chronic bronchitis, the course of treatment may involve the following:
- Annual flu shot
- Pneumonia shot
- Expectorant
Some patients with chronic bronchitis also may develop emphysema. Combined, these conditions form COPD. If this happens, treatment options may include:
- Bronchodilator
- Steroids
- Oxygen therapy