Definition & Clinical Appearance
Acute bronchitis occurs when an irritant or infection causes inflammation and swelling of the lining of the bronchial tubes, which narrow the air passages. When the cells lining the airways are irritated beyond a certain point, the tiny cilia (hairlike projections) that normally trap and eliminate foreign matter stop working properly. Excess mucus is produced, which clogs air passages further and produces the characteristic heavy cough of bronchitis. Attacks of acute bronchitis are common and generally, symptoms disappear spontaneously within a few days. However, attacks may be a major health threat to people with chronic lung disease, the elderly and the very young.
Signs and Symptoms
• Deep, persistent cough that may produce grey, green, or yellowish sputum.
• Shortness of breath and wheezing.
• Fever.
• Chest pain, exacerbated by cough.
Aetiology
Viral infections (including the common cold and flu) are the most common cause of acute bronchitis. Bacterial infections may also lead to bronchitis. Irritants including chemical fumes, dust, smoke, or other air pollutants may provoke an attack. Smoking, asthma, poor nutrition, cold weather, congestive heart failure, and chronic pulmonary disorders may increase the risk of an acute attack.
Contributing Factors
Cigarette smoking.
Start of Pathology / Onset
Any age.
Location
Bronchi of the lungs.
Complications
Risk of developing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
Prophylaxis / Prevention
Don’t smoke, try to avoid second hand smoke. People at increased risk should avoid exposure to potentially irritating airborne particles, such as dust, and avoid exercise on poor air-quality days. Prognosis Rarely has long-term health implications. Usually clears up within a few weeks. Occasionally, secondary infections can take longer to heal.
Medical Treatment
Take aspirin or ibuprofen to reduce fever and pain. Take an over-the-counter cough suppressant containing dextromethorphan if you have a persistent dry cough that disrupts your sleep or normal activities. However, if you are coughing up sputum, suppressing the cough may encourage mucus accumulation in the lungs, potentially leading to serious complications. Stay in a warm room. Inhale steam, use a humidifier, or take frequent hot showers to loosen phlegm. Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to help thin mucus and make it easier to expel. Antibiotics may be prescribed if bacterial infection is suspected. Smokers should abstain from cigarettes.