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Acute Bronchitis 

 
 General Info
 

Acute bronchitis is a condition that is usually ignored by people. Occasionally this condition can cause severe damage to the air passages of the lungs. Inflammation of the main air passages to the lungs (called the bronchi) and the complications related to it, collectively lead to this condition.
  
Causes
 

Bronchitis generally follows a viral infection of the lungs. Common cold can also cause bronchitis. In common cold, an infection of the respiratory tract accompanied by inflammation of the air passages of the lungs, sets the stage for bronchitis followed by bacterial infection. 
 

 
 Symptoms
 

The first symptom appears as a tickle, deep in the throat, that progresses into an irritating dry cough. As the infection progresses, the cough may contain thick yellow phlegm (called purulent sputum) with occasional blood streaks. Associated symptoms may include fever, chest pain, shortness of breath, sore throat and a general feeling of being unwell. 

Given below are the common symptoms of Acute Bronchitis 
Dry Cough 
Fever 
Chills 
Chest Pain 

Shortness of breath 
Sore throat
 
 
 Diagnosis
 

  A physical examination will help the doctor to confirm the disease. Certain tests are carried out to determine if pneumonia has developed. 

  A chest X-ray looks for inflammation of the lung tissues.

  A sputum culture  test with phlegm samples are done to determine the bacteria or other micro organisms responsible for the infections.
 

 
 Treatment
 

Steam inhalation with a few drops of eucalyptus oil will help to open up blocked air passages. 
Antibiotics are used if the phlegm becomes yellow or grayish or yellowish green. Colour change of the phlegm usually indicates a bacterial infection. 
Rest and increased humidity (by using an equipment to cool the inhaled air called that cold mist humidifier)  to soothe air passages, help to give relief to the condition. 
Adequate fluid intake, one should maintain sufficient fluid intake. This will help to thin the respiratory secretions. Usually the symptoms subside within 7 to 10 days in the absence of previous lung disease.
 

 
 More Info
 

Who are at risk?
 Regular smokers 
People working in polluted environment 
Newborns and younger children can develop other respiratory complications
   due to bronchitis like pneumonia 

 Recent illnesses that have lowered the resistance to infections 
Bronchitis can lead to severe lung damage and heart failure.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
 Keep away from cold and damp environments.

 If you smoke, stop smoking. 

 Avoid inhaling polluted air. 
 

 
 FAQ
 

How do people get acute bronchitis?

Acute bronchitis spreads from person to person through cough droplets. The viruses that cause the infection are sprayed into the air or onto people's hands when they cough. You can catch acute bronchitis if you breathe in these viruses or touch hands coated with these viruses.

Cigarette smoking or being exposed to industrial fumes can break down the body's defense against infection. People who smoke are more likely to get acute bronchitis and have it for a longer period. 

Remember: If you stop smoking, you are less likely to get acute bronchitis in the future.

What are the other problems that occur with acute bronchitis?
Sometimes the cough from acute bronchitis lasts for several weeks. Usually this happens because the bronchial tubes may take a long time to heal. 

Acute bronchitis can be confused with asthma. If you continue to wheeze and cough, especially at night or when you are active, you could have mild asthma. 

Pneumonia and acute bronchitis can sometimes cause similar symptoms. If you have a high fever, feel very sick and weak, and continue to cough, you should see your doctor. 

Bronchitis can also be caused by digestive acid coming up from the stomach and dripping into the lungs when you are asleep. It is indicated by continous cough and a bad-taste of fluid in the mouth. Medicines can reduce the acid in your stomach, which may help your cough to go away.

 
GLOSSARY
 
Asthma: In simple terms asthma refers to increased responsiveness of lower airways to multiple stimuli. It can be acute – when it lasts for a short period or chronic- when it lasts for days.