What is Bronchitis?

Bronchitis is an infection that causes irritation and inflammation of the bronchi. The tracheal branch emerges from both sides of the windpipe. They lead to smaller and smaller airways inside your lungs, called bronchioles. The walls of the bronchi secrete mucus to prevent dust and other particles from causing irritation.

In most cases of bronchitis, an infection infects the airways and causes more mucus to be secreted. The body tries to expel this mucus by coughing.

What are the Types of Bronchitis?

It is divided into two: acute bronchitis and chronic bronchitis. Acute bronchitis is a temporary inflammation of the bronchi. It may take up to three weeks. It can infect most people, but it is generally more common in children under five years of age. It is more common in winter after flu, cold and sore throat. Chronic bronchitis is a disease that causes profuse cough every day and lasts for at least three months of the year for two consecutive years. It particularly affects adults over the age of forty. The chemicals in cigarettes and cigarette smoke make bronchitis worse and can cause COPD. Quitting smoking is very important for chronic bronchitis patients. 

What are the symptoms of bronchitis?

Long lasting cough Mucusy cough Dry cough Wheezing while breathing Fever Weakness Pain and pain Runny nose Headache Sore throat What Causes Bronchitis? Most often, you get bronchitis from a virus. However, almost anything that irritates your airways can cause it. Infectious and non-infectious causes of bronchitis include: Virus-induced bronchitis: Viruses that cause bronchitis include influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus, rhinovirus (common cold), and coronavirus. Bacterial bronchitis: Bacteria that cause bronchitis include Bordetella pertussis, Mycoplasma pneumonia, and Chlamydia pneumonia. Bronchitis caused by air pollution: Smoking etc. Is Bronchitis Contagious? Bronchitis itself is not contagious, but the viruses and bacteria that can cause it are. How to Treat Bronchitis? Acute bronchitis is usually not treated with medications. If you've had the flu and symptoms started within the last two days, your doctor may prescribe antivirals to help it clear up faster. Because bronchitis is almost never caused by bacteria, antibiotics won't help with recovery and may even make you feel worse. Antiviral medications: If your bronchitis is caused by the flu, your doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication. You may feel better faster if you start taking antiviral medications soon after your symptoms begin. Bronchodilators: If you have trouble breathing, your doctor may prescribe a bronchodilator (a medication that helps open the airways). Anti-inflammatory medications: Your doctor may prescribe corticosteroids and other medications to reduce inflammation. Cough suppressants: Over-the-counter or prescription cough suppressants can help with a bothersome cough.