Bronchitis is the inflammation of the bronchi: Channels
that carry air from the trachea to the alveoli. Accordingly, the patient has
persistent coughing, accompanied by secretion. This disease
can be acute or chronic. A
duration and worsening
crises is what differentiates one from another.
It is related to inhalation of toxic substances, irritants or allergens. It
usually heals quickly and completely after the pulmonary rehabilitation of
the individual. Bacteria as Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Bordetella
pertussis and Chlamydia can cause acute
infectious bronchitis.
Bronchitis often appears after a cold or flu: when the immunity
is low. Initially, malaise, increased nasal secretions and a cough are
characteristic.
People who already have respiratory or heart
problems should be aware that complications my develop.
Chronic Bronchitis:
Also known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic bronchitis is
characterized when the carrier has cough with mucus at least three
months a year for two consecutive years. One consequence of the
change in the bronchial mucosa is due to prolonged exposure to irritants such
as cigarette smoking or environmental factors.
Fever, cough with thick sputum, wheezing and difficult breathing are the main symptoms in times of crisis.
Besides the removal of the causative factors of the
crisis, corticosteroids, bronchodilators or expectorants may be prescribed by
a physician.
Remarkably
Cigarette smoking, both active and passive, is the main triggering agent of
both bronchitis and thus avoid the most of it is necessary to prevent the
disease.
Patients with chronic bronchitis should be vaccinated annually against
influenza. A single dose of pneumococci is also indicated, as it prevents
pneumonia and other respiratory infections.
