BronchitisWhat are the Symptoms and Treatments

A medical diagnosis manifested by a productive cough of the sputum occurring for more than three months can be deemed as chronic bronchitis. It can occur consecutively for two years along with the obstruction on air passages. Pulmonary testing helps in proper diagnosis through documentation of reversible characteristics of airways obstruction.

The current foundations of chronic bronchitis management are sympathomimetic agents and inhaled ipratropium bromide. Although theophyllinne is a very important therapy, its usage is only limited to narrow therapeutic effects. Orally taken steroids are reserved from patients demonstrating improvements in airflow. Antibiotics also play an important role for alleviating acute exacerbations. Others include smoking cessation, nutritional and hydration support, supplemental oxygen, and strengthening respiratory muscles.

Chronic bronchitis is considered one of the most common COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) illnesses. In fact, this is the fourth major death cause in the U.S. There are approximately ten million Americans who are affected by COPD to some extent causing 40,000 deaths in a year.

The major risk factor in developing chronic bronchitis is cigarette smoking. More than ninety percent of the patients have smoking histories, although fifteen percent of cigarette smokers are diagnosed ultimately with obstructive disease of the airways. Studies revealed that persistent active markers of airway inflammation upon bronchial specimen’s biopsy are found in symptomatic ex-smokers, even if these people already halted their smoking habit for thirteen years.

There are three major bacterial pathogens found in people with chronic bronchitis. It includes Streptococcus pneumoniae, Moraxella catarrhalis, and Haemophilus influenzae. A speculative explanation between chronic bronchitis and infection interactions is due to the low colonization density of infectious agents on the lower respiratory tract which cause inflammatory reaction and triggers succeeding acute exacerbations.

Documentation which supports this concept is taken from various studies of patients affected by chronic bronchitis. The bacteria associated with IgE circulate in the body of the patients triggering histamine release after exposure to similar cultured bacteria of the lower respiratory tracts.  Added mechanisms including neurogenic inflammation is then developed causing chronic bronchitis symptomatic flare-ups. Thus the disease may continue because inflammatory mediators are sustained.

Diagnostic testing on the obstruction of the air passages must be done. Pulmonary function testing is recommended to determine how the patient responds to inhaled therapy such as bronchodilators. The obstructive disease of the airway is defined by the measured FEV1 (forced expiratory volume)/ FVC (forced vital capacity) ratio.

Most adults over their mid-life years, physiologic changes related to their age and elasticity of their lungs can cause a 30mL FEV1 decline in a year. Progressive declines of FEV1 rates means prolonged suffering from chronic bronchitis. The obstruction in the air passages caused by excessive sputum production can confirm chronic bronchitis diagnosis.

1. Blood tests. Advanced chronic bronchitis is determined through blood sampling taken from the artery. Usually, hypoxemia is very common characterized by ventilatory failure next to inflammation and bronchospasm. If ventilatory exchange of gas worsens, the condition is called concomitant hypercapnia. Testing through blood samples can also determine mild polycythemia.

2.  Chest radiograph. This tests although correlate poorly with chronic bronchitis symptoms in many patients, still, findings can be determined such as blebs, hyperinflation, bullae, peribronchial markings, and diaphragmatic flattening.

3. Electrocardiogram. This test is able to recognize disturbances in the supraventricular rhythm which include atrial flutter or atrial fibrillation, atrial tachycardia having “P” pulmonale.  Airway biopsy findings also include submucosal and mucosal inflammation, hyperplasia of goblet cell, and increased muscle smoothness on the small noncartilaginous air passage. 

4. Sputum cultures. This is limited for patients that have never been admitted in hospitals but displays acute chronic bronchitis exacerbations. It is because cultures of samples never reflect any presence of the organisms in bronchial distal levels. The sputum’s gram stain is a way of determining if antibiotic therapy is needed. Protected-tip sputum cultures are suggested for hospitalized patients especially if atypical organisms cause the exacerbation.

The whole ten years of mortality rate after the chronic bronchitis diagnosis is fifty percent. Respiratory failure after acute exacerbation is often the most terminal event. It is because bacterial infections often follow, characterized by fever, purulent sputum, and worst poor ventilation symptoms. Other precipitants include seasonal changes, infections of the upper respiratory, medications, and prolong exposure to pollutants and irritants.  However, understanding the role of mediators which cause inflammation in chronic bronchitis led on a better management of the disease.

The most common disease associated with respiratory system is bronchitis. It is often accompanied by a cold or flu and affects people regardless of age. If your immune system is weak or you are a chain smoker, then you are greatly exposed to develop chronic bronchitis. In few cases, developing asthmatic bronchitis is also possible.

Smoking is considered to be a serious cause of bronchitis which can lead to other complications like pneumonia. The substances found in cigarettes as well other tobacco causes bronchial tubes irritation. Environmental pollution and exposures to chemicals can also lead to developing chronic bronchitis. In addition, second-hand smokes as shown in some studies can also cause chronic bronchitis.

Mostly, chronic bronchitis is diagnosed among metal molders, grain handlers, coal miners, and other dust-related occupation. Symptoms of chronic bronchitis worsen if air pollutants and sulfur dioxide also increases.

However, bronchitis is brought about by viruses. Within a few days, these viruses may disappear without medications. If bacteria is the cause of bronchitis, then antibiotics is needed to completely overcome it.

Bronchitis can either be chronic or acute. Acute bronchitis generates extreme symptoms. It normally clears up immediately if viruses caused it. Chronic bronchitis produces milder symptoms but later on can aggravate. This is often persistent with recidivating character. Chronic bronchitis requires continuous treatment to prevent symptoms from recurring.

Bronchitis manifests different symptoms including coughs, breath shortness, soreness, discomfort, excessive mucus production, headache, wheezing, chest pain, and fever. Fever is present due to bacteria infections posing any possible complications.

Among the COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases) illnesses, bronchitis mostly affects more people. And despite its large affected population, it is usually misdiagnosed. Insufficient clinical examination can misinterpret bronchitis with allergies, asthma, and sinusitis.

The doctor will ask your medical background which includes pervious and recent smoking habits. Your endurance is also questioned whether or not it is easy for you to climb stairs or walk a long distance. Using a stethoscope, the doctor will examine your chest and back and listen to your normal breathing. In this way, signs of bronchitis can be determined.

However, the best way to confirm the presence and seriousness of bronchitis is to undergo PFT or pulmonary function tests. Keep in mind that these tests can be done if causes are known. It includes:

1. Spirometry. An instrument called spirometer is utilized to measure the air inhaled and exhaled from your lungs. Air volumes are measured to determine the ability of your lungs to hold and exhale air.

2.   Peak flow meter. It measures the PEFR (peak expiratory flow rate). PEFR is the maximum quantity of air that you can exhale upon forced exhalation.

3. Chest x-ray. This is suggested by a doctor to know if pneumonia problems are present. Mild x-ray changes can be a sign of chronic bronchitis.

4. ABG (arterial blood gas) test. This determines the amount of carbon dioxide and oxygen in your blood. A blood is drawn from your artery. The procedure can make you very uncomfortable. Analysis of your blood gas is useful if oxygen therapy can be advised in case your blood oxygen is very low.

5. Additional tests are necessary if other problems related to your health are involved. If infections are present, sputum and blood tests as well as cultures are conducted to determine the causes of infections.

There are different factors when considering treatments for bronchitis. If it is not caused by bacteria, unblocking the obstruction from the airways is done. Medical treatments inhaled medications helpful in unblocking the air passages of your respiratory tract. Bronchodilators are widely used for asthmatic bronchitis and chronic bronchitis.

Bronchitis inflamed the bronchial tubes, mucous membrane, and other tissues and organs associated with the breathing process. Once these fragile organs of the respiratory get irritated and inflamed, excessive mucus is produced so that external agents such as irritants and dusts cannot penetrate. Excess mucus clogs the air passage and blocks the air from going into the lungs. This is the time when a person experiences cough, wheezing, or breathing difficulty.

Basically, bronchitis is not easy to diagnose. It is because its symptoms are also present in other respiratory diseases such as asthma and sinusitis. But these careful laboratory analyses and physical examinations help a lot.

An author once said that time and again medical science has demonstrated that with apt resources on proper treatment, diseases can be treated if not cured.

Bronchitis can be treated if you know the proper ways to make yourself better. Such information can also be helpful for your caregiver. 

Treating bronchitis depends on how mild or severe the condition is. Most physicians recommend “home treatment” when you are inflicted with acute bronchitis since the illness goes away after two to three weeks. 

Relieve your cough.

Since coughs can be annoying, you need to find ways to alleviate from coughing. The most effective action is to drink plenty of non-caffeinated fluids such as water and fruit juices. Studies show that water is the best expectorant to ease your cough as well as thin your mucus. 

Cough can be relieved by breathing steam from a hot shower, vaporizer or a pan of boiling water. The moist air soothes the air passageways which can help release the phlegm.

If you are a smoker, it is recommended that you discontinue from smoking. Substances from a cigarette are known to be irritants which can contribute to the severity of your cough.

Some foods can exacerbate your cough. Hence it is best to avoid eating spicy foods, dairy products, meat, oily and fried foods. 

Get enough rest.

The best way to combat the symptoms of acute bronchitis is to get ample of rest. By doing so, you will be able to get as much energy you need to fight the infection. 

Try getting sufficient sleep. If you can’t sleep due to inability to breathe well, try elevating the head of your bed. When you do that, the sinuses and nasal passages will have better drainage and it will not make a “tickle” in your throat.

Keep away from heavy food intake three hours before bedtime for you to be able to sleep well. Eating hours before bedtime increases your blood sugar which makes you hard to fall asleep. 

Make use of nonprescription medicines. 

There are recommended nonprescription medicines if you have acute bronchitis. These medicines are commonly given to alleviate fever and other discomfort brought by the symptoms. 

1. Acetaminophen – this is a drug commonly used to relieve soreness of the body as well as fever.
2. Ibuprofen – this type of drug is given to individuals to give aid to their fever.
3. Aspirin – this is a drug usually used as an “analgesic” to reduce minor pains and body aches. However, aspirins are not recommended for use to children unless advised by their physician.

If it cannot be prevented, there are suggested prescribed medications such as the following:

1. Inhaled betaz- agonists – this type of medication is usually prescribed for the presence of chronic cough. You or a caregiver should be cautious of the potential side effects such as tenseness and trembling.
2. Antibiotics – there are some antibiotics which are prescribed by physicians to treat individuals who are at danger to develop other complications. 

Chronic bronchitis usually entails long-term treatment compared to acute. Medical findings show that there is no cure for chronic bronchitis. The main objective for you to be able to treat this type of illness is to relieve you from the symptoms and to put off complications. 

Any substances which can irritate the respiratory tract should be avoided such as smoke from cigarettes or belches, strong scent from perfumes or colognes, dust mites, dander from pets, and fibers from fabric materials.

Some physician will recommend the intake of antibiotics. However this is only suited for recurring infections. Additionally, the use of steroids such as Corticosteroids is sometimes prescribed to patients who do not act in response to recommended treatments. There are few doctors who prescribe this type of medication due to the many side effects it poses. Corticosteroid is only used when needed.

If your chronic bronchitis is considered severe then you will have to undergo “oxygen therapy.” This kind of therapy administers oxygen as a therapeutic modality wherein the oxygen supply is heightened. With a use of mask or nasal cannula, oxygen is being supplied to you.

Being well-informed about your illness most especially its treatment will give you a lot of benefit. Read a lot about how to treat bronchitis. Most importantly, talk with your physician and do not be afraid to ask questions if there are vague explanations which you cannot understand.

Inflammation of the respiratory tract that includes the trachea and the bronchus is known as bronchitis. This may be caused by viral or bacterial infection or constant exposure to pollutants (such as smoking and air pollution). There are two kinds, acute and chronic bronchitis.

Acute bronchitis usually takes place right after an infection of the upper respiratory tract has occurred like a sinus infection or the common cold. As for chronic bronchitis, there is no exact microorganism that can be pinpointed as a cause but smoking and environmental pollutants are believed to be the major culprits which then may be followed by bacterial or viral infection as the immune system becomes vulnerable.

Common symptoms of both kinds of bronchitis are nasal congestion, muscle pains, fever and chills, sore throat, poor sleep, and dyspnea (common in chronic bronchitis). Basically, the symptoms of bronchitis are similar to that of the common cold. It starts with an irritation at the back of the throat and as it gets worse, cough will enter the picture which may come with phlegm. If the phlegm is streaked with blood, it is best to consult a physician.

Cough is a universal symptom of bronchitis. This may be accompanied with sputum or not (dry cough). Sputum producing cough is a manifestation of an infection in the lower respiratory tract and the lungs. In acute bronchitis, cough may persist for more than fourteen days. Constant and vigorous coughing may leave the thoracic and abdominal muscles aching. Without proper medication, forceful coughing may even cause injury to the chest wall.

Uncomplicated bronchitis can be easily treated at home. Commonly, bronchitis (especially acute bronchitis) is caused by a viral infection. Virus-caused bronchitis is self-limiting and may require no major treatment except to alleviate symptoms and ease discomfort.

But if it is caused by bacterial infections, then antibiotics are prescribed. However, antibiotics should not be taken if bronchitis is caused by a virus. Doing so, will only be a waste of time and money. An over usage of antibiotics will only make certain types of bacteria to build resistance from the medication.

Since muscle aches can be experienced through the course of the disease, anti-pain medications may be taken such as acetaminophen and aspirin. But bear in mind that an over dosage of these type of medications may cause gastric bleeding. These should be taken with a full stomach. Furthermore, aspirin is contraindicated for children and pregnant women. Aspirin is thought to be highly associated with Reye’s syndrome in children, and it may cause severe bleeding in pregnant women.

To ease irritation in the respiratory tract, a cool mist humidifier may be employed. Taking large amounts of liquid helps out to ease fever because it tends to cool down the body temperature. Liquid intake also thins out or liquefies the phlegm, making it easier to cough it out. Another way to loosen up the phlegm is by taking an expectorant such as quaifenesin.

Further medical treatment will depend on the causative factor of bronchitis. If the patient is experiencing severe uncontrollable coughing, cough suppressants may be prescribed by the physician. But the before prescribing it, the physician will most likely test the individual to rule out other diseases.

Another kind of medication is the bronchodilator. This causes the respiratory tract tissues to dilate or open up which then promotes easy passage of air to the lungs. It consequently reduces wheezing.

Again, antibiotics may be used. Other than the reason of bacterial-caused infection in uncomplicated bronchitis is because individuals suffering from long term lung problems are more prone to bacteria infections because of their weakened immune systems.

In later stages of chronic bronchitis, the patient may call for supplemental oxygen to assist him or her in breathing. This oxygen therapy may be given during exercise to avoid dyspnea. And the patient may as well be hospitalized if the disease has become very severe and has developed complications.

To avoid further complications, patients may be required to receive an annual flu vaccine, as well as pneumococcal vaccine every five to seven years. Other medical treatments may also include mucolytic agents, antitussive medications, and alpha1 antitrypsin therapy.

Other treatments that can ease the symptoms of bronchitis are the use of herbal medicines. These can be formulated as inhalants and tea. Still, consult your physician if these additional herbal medicines won’t interfere with the primary treatment.

Bronchitis is a condition wherein air passages into the lungs are inflamed. It can either be chronic or acute. Acute bronchitis is caused by viral infection which begins in the sinuses or nose spreading to the air passages. It can be only considered a chronic bronchitis if the cough progress on the sputum for a minimum of three months within a year. Nevertheless, chronic bronchitis most often affects smokers. In some cases, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is diagnosed.

Both types of bronchitis display different symptoms. In acute bronchitis, wheezing, fever, fatigue, sore throat, cough producing mucus, and chest burning sensation are obvious. In chronic bronchitis, wheezing, chronic cough producing excessive mucus, inability to breath, blue-tinged lips, and swelling of the ankle, leg, and feet.

Virus causes acute bronchitis as well as bacteria. In general, acute bronchitis can be transmitted from one person to another. Chronic bronchitis is caused by cigarette smoking and long-term exposure to irritants including grain and dust and air pollution.

The doctor listens to your back and chest, examines your throat, draws blood, and takes cultures of lung secretions during check ups. If there is a possibility of COPD or pneumonia, the doctor can require you to undergo a chest x-ray.

Preventive care must be incorporated to avoid acute and chronic bronchitis. The simplest way is to keep away from irritants and air pollutants. Yearly flu and pneumococcal vaccination is advised to prevent infection leading to chronic bronchitis exacerbation or acute bronchitis.

The treatment approach also varies. Generally, viruses are cleared within seven to ten days in acute bronchitis. You can take cough medications containing expectorants, use humidifiers, and drink lots of fluids to relieve symptoms. Infections due to bacteria must be consulted first to your doctor. It is not recommended to take medicines without proper prescriptions. Most often, the doctors prescribe antibiotics. Others include bronchodilators, like Albuterol which can help in opening your airways and corticosteroids which is inhaled or taken orally to reduce inflammation and mucus. 

Changing your lifestyle is also a helpful remedy. You need to stop smoking. If possible, utilize a steam or humidifier in your bathroom. Make it a habit to drink lots of water and other fluids. If your infection is active, take your rest. Oxygen therapy at home can be also done if the levels of oxygen in your body are low due to chronic bronchitis.

Dietary and nutrition supplements are also recommended. Food experimentation can be done to see if changing your diet is effective or not in alleviating chronic bronchitis symptoms. Keeping careful records regarding how you feel. Eating dairy products should be lessened to reduce mucus production. Try avoiding milk, eggs, nuts, preservatives, additives, and food coloring. Instead, try adding garlic and onions. 

Scientific studies revealed that NAC or N-Acetyl-Cysteine can help in dissolving mucus as well as improve symptoms of chronic bronchitis. Zinc supplementation can enhance the activity of your immune system. It also protects you from infections including infections of the upper respiratory system and colds. Other supplements include bromalein, quercetin, vitamin c, and lactobacillus which also prevent the person from catching infections and relieve bronchitis symptoms.

Using herbs is proven to strengthen and treat diseases for many years. However, herbs may contain substances that are active. It may produce side effects upon interactions with other medications, supplements, or herbs. Herbs must be taken with proper prescription from a knowledgeable practitioner of herbal medications.

Barberry or berberis vulgaris helps improve immune system functions and fight infections. Eucalyptus or eucalyptus globules is good for treating common colds and coughs. Eucalyptus oil helps in loosening the phlegm. Peppermint or mentha x piperita is effective as decongestants. It contains menthol, thinning the mucus like an expectorant.  It provides calming and soothing effects for dry coughs and sore throats. Slippery elm or ulmus fulva is recognized by the U.S. FDA (Food and Drug Authority) as an effective and safe remedy for respiratory symptoms and sore throat. Stinging nettle or urtica dioica also acts as expectorants having anti-viral properties.

Homeopathy is some cases are applicable provided with standard medical attention. It is because physical, psychological, and emotional makeup of a person are taken into consideration before the procedure.

However, recovery chances of the patient are good using these remedies if bronchitis is diagnosed on each early stage.

Bronchitis and pneumonia is not synonymous. However, both are diseases affecting the lower respiratory system. Typically, it affects the airways going to the lungs, so it is imperative that a person should learn the major differences of the diseases to have a better understanding.

A severe lung infection is called pneumonia. The alveoli are filled with other liquid and pus. Thus the normal flow of oxygen is blocked. The blood is then getting less amounts of oxygen. In the absence of oxygen in your body, the cells fail to work properly. Proper treatment should be given, because less supply of oxygen and widespread infection can lead to death.

There are several factors which cause pneumonia, but the major cause of pneumonia is bacteria. The symptoms may include a headache, severe fatigue, loss of appetite, excessive sweating, skin is clammy when touched, and some degree of confusion.

- Streptococcus pneumoniae is a bacterium affecting twenty to sixty percent of adults and thirteen to thirty percent of children. This type of pneumonia is considered as community-acquired. Streptococcus classified as Group A or streptococcus pyogenes also causes pneumonia.  

- Staphylococcus aureus is responsible for acquired pneumonias in hospitals affecting ten to fifteen percent of people. This is often linked with patients having a weak immune system and viral influenza.

- Another bacteria present in cases of community-acquired pneumonias, people having chronic lung diseases, and children having cystic fibrosis is the gram-negative bacteria.

- Viral causes include RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), HPV (human parainfluenza virus), SARS (severe acute respiratory distress syndrome), herpesviruses,   influenza, and adenoviruses.

There are several types of pneumonia which you should also learn.

- Bacterial organisms cause atypical pneumonias including the walking pneumonia. A mild symptom like dry cough is apparent. However, hospital care is not needed.

- Aspiration pneumonia is a condition wherein the bacteria are present in the mouth. It is harmless if it stays there. But if gag reflex weakens, bacteria can penetrate your lungs causing the infection.

- Opportunistic pneumonia is harmless as long as the immune system is healthy. It can be harmful for people with vulnerable immune systems especially to illness and infection.

- Regional and occupational pneumonias are caused by exposure to chemicals. People who are exposed to cattle are at high risk of getting pneumonia due to anthrax.

Bronchitis is a disease affecting the bronchi. It is responsible for carrying the air from your trachea into your lungs. Inflammation due to irritation and infection can damage the cells on the bronchi areas. Normally, these cells contain cilia which remove and trap foreign particles that you breathe every day.

Blockage of the cilia causes obstruction on the airways increasing the irritation since the debris cannot easily flow. Mucus is then produced resembling to that of a cough. It makes the airways more vulnerable to infection and damages the tissue if irritation continues. Bronchitis has two types.

- Acute bronchitis can last for ten days. This is often accompanied by a severe flu or cold. Take note, bronchitis can start without any infection.

- Chronic bronchitis can last for three months or above. The symptoms are recurrent. So it must be always checked because it can threaten your life. This condition may also occur from a series attacks of acute bronchitis. It may also gradually develop because of inhaling dirty air or heavy smoking.

Viruses affect approximately ninety percent of people with acute bronchitis. Other cases are caused by repetitive exposures to irritants including smoke. This may develop chronic bronchitis. Using antibiotic is not effective because it cannot eradicate irritants or viral illnesses. It can only be effective with bacterial diseases. Moreover, you should never be confused of an asthma which produces significant amounts of cough and little wheezing. Often it is misdiagnosed as acute bronchitis.

The therapies that are most effective in treating bronchitis is being patient, avoid irritants, and maintain good nutrition. Some cases of viral bronchitis can last from eight to twelve weeks. Chronic bronchitis which is considered severe causes bronchi dilation. This makes the condition more susceptible to bacterial and severe infections caused by drugs.

It is very important to determine the differences between pneumonia and bronchitis. Health is very important thus proper diagnosis is essential for acquiring proper treatment.

There are basically two kinds of bronchitis, acute and chronic bronchitis. These two may have the same last names but they vary from their causative effects and treatment prescribed to control the diseases.

Acute bronchitis is a short-term illness that becomes rampant during the cold seasons. It is usually followed by a viral infection and can go together with a bacterial infection. Acute bronchitis is self-limiting which clears itself within fourteen days but the cough may continue. Like any other upper respiratory tract infections, having acute bronchitis can raise chance of developing pneumonia.

People who are at risk of getting acute bronchitis are infants, very young children, and the old adults. This is due to the fact that infants and very young children still have underdeveloped immune systems, while the old adults, on the other hand, have immune systems that have become weaker due to ageing. Other group populations who are at risk are smokers and those with preexisting lung and/or heart ailments. People who are often exposed to pollution are also at risk of being afflicted with acute bronchitis.

Chronic bronchitis is also an inflammation of the respiratory tract with an accompaniment of phlegm expectoration and coughing. But in chronic bronchitis, the signs ands symptoms are at hand for no less than 3 months for two successive years.

Chronic bronchitis may be caused by the inhalation of respiratory airway irritants. Airway irritants may be in the form of cigarette smoking or pollution or a combination of both. Because this disease advances gradually, middle aged individuals and the elderly are expected to be diagnosed with this malady.

The main objective for the treatment of both acute and chronic bronchitis is to alleviate the symptoms.

For acute bronchitis, treatment consists of lots of intake of fluids, quitting smoking, taking a break, humidifying the home environment, and medications (in case of fever and pain). Acetaminophen is the most prescribed medication to fight pain and fever. Another is aspirin, but this is contraindicated for children and pregnant women due to the fact that this drug is suspected to be the cause of Reye’s syndrome among children. For women, it may cause severe bleeding.

Anti-cough medicines are taken when the sufferer experiences dry cough (cough without phlegm). But if the individual is experiencing cough with phlegm, then it should be left as it is and let the phlegm come out naturally. This is because if cough is suppressed and the phlegm is contained within, then it will eventually accumulate in the air passages which will cause an obstruction and may become a hotbed for dangerous microorganisms.

Expectorants, on the other hand, are medications that help liquidify or thin out the thick mucus in the lungs to make it easier to cough out.

Moreover, if the physician has detected a bacterial infection then an antibiotic medication may be prescribed. Intake of antibiotic medications should be done religiously as the physician ordered because any lapse may only cause the return of the disease or worse, the bacteria may produce a strain that could become immune to the medication.

Antibiotic medications may include the following:
? azithromycin
? trimethoprim or sulfamethazole
? clarithromycin
? tetracycline or ampicillin
? amoxicillin (for children below eight years of age due to the fact that tetracycline causes discoloration on the teeth that have not come out)

As for chronic bronchitis, treatment is a bit more multifaceted than acute bronchitis. The physician would need to carefully evaluate the patient for other health problems before a treatment plan can be employed to control the disease. Including in the treatment plan are changes in lifestyle that will involve stoppage of smoking and keeping away from polluted environments. Regular exercise may also help in the control of the disease.

Medications for chronic bronchitis include anti-inflammatory medications and bronchodilators. Anti-inflammatory drugs decrease the inflammation in the respiratory tract tissues.

The following are commonly prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs:
? Corticosteroids (i.e. prednisone, can be taken either as an oral medication or through IV)
? Ipratropium (also reduces the amount of mucus produced)

Meanwhile, bronchodilators help loosen up the bronchial muscles which then permits increase air flow in the respiratory passages. These can be taken in orally or by inhalation through a nebulizer (an apparatus that transport medication to the respiratory tract). Bronchodilators may include the following:
? metaproterenol
? albuterol

With the advancement of chronic bronchitis, the individual afflicted may eventually require supplemental oxygen. And in the later stages of the disease, the patient may need to be in the hospital if he or she developed severe complications.

In addition to conventional medications, herbal medicines can be also included in the treatment plan. Herbal medicines may be inhaled (like eucalyptus) or taken as tea made from mullein or Verbascum thapsus, coltsfoot or Tussilago farfara, and anise seed or Pimpinella anisum.

There are numerous medications out there and it is best to consult the physician to know which drug can best help treat and/or control bronchitis.

Bronchitis is a lower respiratory tract problem that is manifested by an inflammation and/or infection of airways which includes the trachea and larger air tubes that carry oxygen into the lungs. There are two kinds of bronchitis: acute (short-term) bronchitis and chronic (long-term) bronchitis.

Acute bronchitis is usually followed by a viral infection, primarily upsetting the nasal cavity, sinuses, and the throat and then extending to the larger bronchial airway passages. Other times, the patient may acquire a bacterial infection. This goes to show that the inflamed respiratory tract will be infested by bacteria.

Very young children, infants, children who are constantly exposed to smoke (such as parents who are smokers), and children afflicted with a pre-existing lung or heart disease are at risk of getting acute bronchitis.

On the other hand, chronic bronchitis is manifested by overproduction of bronchial mucus causing a productive cough. As the disease progresses from constant inflammation (which may exclude infection) can obstruct the flow of air into the lungs eventually causing difficulty in breathing and severe damage in the respiratory tract.

Chronic bronchitis is a category of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). COPD is a respiratory problem that develops for a long time which will eventually hinder the patient from breathing normally causing difficulty in physical exertion and may require a supply of oxygen regularly.

Long-term contact and exposure with smokers is the main culprit of chronic bronchitis among children. Other predicaments that may cause the illness are allergies and air pollution.

To prevent children from acquiring this unfortunate disease, parents and/or guardians must teach proper hand washing to keep away from the spread of bacteria and viruses that causes bronchitis; reduce the incidence of exposure to air pollutants; and it is also recommended to get a flu vaccine. Quitting from cigarette smoking will very much help you and your loved ones from being afflicted with respiratory problems.

Both types of bronchitis have the same set of symptoms:

? easily tired
? wheezing
? difficulty in breathing which is worsened even by mild physical exertion
? chest aches
? cough with mucus ( if the mucus is blood streaked, then it is advisable to consult your paediatrician)
? rales (abnormal sounds heard in the lungs through the use of a stethoscope)

Tests to diagnose bronchitis may include the use of pulse oxymetry, arterial blood gas, pulmonary lung function tests, chest x-ray, and sputum or mucus analysis and evaluation.

If left untreated or under treated, bronchitis may progress into other forms of respiratory ailments such as pneumonia, emphysema, right sided heart failure, and pulmonary hypertension.

In any case, when there are no other infections present in acute bronchitis, it is treated just like the common cold. Treatment may include intake of lots of fluids, complete rest, use of humidifiers, and medications like Tylenol for fever and pain. Bear in mind that aspirin is contraindicated with children due to its association with Reye’s syndrome.

If the child is experiencing dry cough, then it is advisable to give cough suppressants for comfort’s sake. But if the cough is productive (with mucus or sputum) then it is best if the sputum be expectorated naturally. This is because the cough helps to bring out the mucus and other irritants from the lungs. When coughing is restrained, the sputum or mucus build ups in the already obstructed airways and can become a hotbed for bacterial pneumonia.

To induce coughing, expectorants may be used. These medications assist the child afflicted with bronchitis by thinning out the mucus in the lungs. To make sure of what type of medication is best for your child, it is best to consult your pediatrician.

Antibiotics on the other hand are prescribed to battle bacteria-caused bronchitis. It is imperative that the patient take the medication regularly as prescribed to avoid relapses. Children below eight years old are generally prescribed with amoxicillin instead of tetracycline. Tetracycline is contraindicated because it tends to create a discoloration in the teeth that has yet to come out in children.

As for chronic bronchitis, treatment will depend on the stage of the disease. In a child’s case, a change into a healthy environment is best indicated in addition to supervised exercise. Medications may include bronchodilators, which relaxes the bronchial tubes allowing easy flow of air into the lungs. Anti-inflammatory medications are also utilized which reduces swelling in the respiratory tract. If, unfortunately, the disease advances the child may require supplemental oxygen.

In all cases of diseases, prevention is still better than the cure. Parents who are health conscious should quit smoking to both protect their own health as well as their children. Also avoid places that are heavily polluted and eat a lot of nutritious food. The flu vaccine may also help in preventing such illnesses that causes disruptions to day to day living. Just remember to stay healthy!

Bronchitis is an ailment of the airways manifested by the existence of sputum production and cough for at least three months in each of two successive years. From the name itself, bronchitis is the inflammation and infection of the bronchial tree. The bronchial tree is composed of tubes that bring air to the lungs. When these get inflamed and infected, the tubes swell and produce thick mucus inside of them which makes it difficult to breathe.

There are basically two kinds of bronchitis: acute (meaning short term) bronchitis and chronic (meaning long term) bronchitis. Acute bronchitis is mainly caused by viruses and bacteria. Chronic bronchitis on the other hand is caused by smoking or environmental pollutants that causes an irritation on the airways.

During pregnancy the woman’s body undergoes a lot of changes. Her body now consumes oxygen and nutrients not just for her own well-being but for the baby inside her as well. The health of a pregnant woman with respiratory problems can be quite a predicament for physicians. There are major factors that are involved when dealing with the health of pregnant women such as their anatomical and physiological alterations to pregnancy, balancing both fetal and maternal needs, and the pregnant woman’s vulnerability to diseases. Although there may be modifications in the care of pregnant women with respiratory health problems, such as, bronchitis, management and treatment of the said health predicament is similar to those of nonpregnant individuals.

Respiratory health problems have the possibility to get worse in pregnancy because of the rising uterus tends to squeeze the diaphragm, decreasing the dimension of available space in the lungs and the size of thoracic cavity just when lung function is essential to supply sufficient oxygen exchange for the mother and the fetus.

Moreover, histologic evaluations of the upper respiratory tract during pregnancy expose hyperemia (increase amount of blood), glandular hyperactivity (increase workload of the glands), increased mucopolysaccharide content, and increased phagocytic activity. These alterations seem to be caused by the increase in estrogen levels. As a result, pregnant women experience nose bleeding and nasal stuffiness.

Being knowledgeable enough about the changes in respiratory physiology among pregnant women is crucial to their care and management when they become affected by a respiratory disease. As you may well know, these changes permit the mother-to-be to meet the metabolic needs of the unborn child.

The following are signs and symptoms of bronchitis:

? Fatigue
? Low grade fever
? Chest aches
? Wheezing
? Labored breathing or dyspnea which is worsened by physical exertion
? Cough with sputum or mucus
? Rales, these are abnormal lung sounds that can be heard in the lungs through the stethoscope

To diagnose the disease, tests are utilized by the doctors in addition to the obvious signs and symptoms in the confirmation of the disease such as pulmonary lung function tests, pulse oxymetry, arterial blood gas, chest x-ray, and sputum examinations

Treatment for bronchitis in pregnant women is similar to those individuals who are not pregnant. In any case, if the disease is caused by a virus then an antibiotic is useless (which is prescribed for bacteria-caused bronchitis). Acute bronchitis is usually self-limiting and may clear out within a week. General treatment is comprised of complete rest, lots of fluid intake, use of humidifiers to clear out the lung congestions, and avoiding air pollutants such as smoking. Although aspirin is prescribed to common individuals, pregnant women are not allowed to take this since it can cause bleeding and may induce complications.

Furthermore, prevention is still better than the cure. And being in a vulnerable state, pregnant women should always be careful with their bodies like always wash their hands (to avoid bacterial or viral bronchitis) and stop smoking or avoid smokers. It is also recommended that pregnant women obtain a flu vaccine especially if they are going to be pregnant during the influenza season.  Although the vaccine will not wholly prevent the woman from getting afflicted with bronchitis, it will at least shield her from certain strains of virus caused respiratory illnesses.

Any respiratory predicament can create serious damage to the unborn child if allowed to progress until the mother’s oxygen- carbon dioxide exchange is altered and heavily compromised.

My mother has emphysema, and only recently quit smoking. Trouble is, since quitting, her health seems to be deteriorating. She's had problems with pain in her legs (she's also extremely sedentary, but this is the first time she's complained of pain), she feels far more fatigued, and though she was short of breath before, it's far more noticable now. Her cough is almost constant, and - as she terms it - exhausting. I'm looking for several things out of this question:
1) Are these symptoms "normal" for nicotine withdrawl in someone with emphysema?
2) Shoud we expect other symptoms?
3) What medicines or holistic remedies are recommended?
4) Is there anything that *I* can do to help her?

Thanks for your time!

Emphysema can not be reversed. The physical withdrawal is just hard and may cause a person who does not feel well and is inactive to be more aware of the discomfort. Just like you can work through pain if you are engages in something more interesting. I know 2 people who swore that their allergies got worse when they quit smoking - the theory being that the tar had been coating the lungs and keeping the allergens out. Sounds like crap to me, but they insist, so take it at that.
Just be supportive and upbeat, you have no control in this.

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