Cough complaints can range from mild to more severe conditions such as bronchitis. What exactly is bronchitis, and what symptoms should you be aware of? Let’s discuss it further.
The Respiratory System
The respiratory system is divided into the upper and lower respiratory tracts. The upper respiratory tract includes the nose, pharynx, and the larynx. Meanwhile, the lower respiratory tract begins from the trachea down to the alveoli.
The bronchi are branches of the trachea that serve as passages for air to reach the lungs. The bronchioles are smaller branches of the bronchi that spread throughout the lung tissue.
Bronchitis
Bronchitis is a condition involving inflammation of the bronchi. Based on its duration, bronchitis can be classified as acute or chronic. The causes of bronchitis may be infectious or non-infectious.
Bronchitis is often caused by viral infections. Bronchitis due to a viral infection is usually acute. The body’s immune system plays an important role in fighting off the virus in this condition.
Besides infections, bronchitis can also be caused by non-infectious factors such as smoking and air pollution. These factors commonly trigger chronic bronchitis.
Symptoms of Bronchitis
Acute bronchitis is often caused by the same viruses responsible for the common cold. The development of bronchitis is closely related to a weakened immune system or underlying conditions that suppress immunity, such as HIV or the use of immunosuppressants.
Acute bronchitis can last for 1 to 3 weeks. Symptoms may include productive cough, low grade fever, fatigue, chest pain, and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
Chronic bronchitis, on the other hand, persists for a longer duration, at least 3 months, and continues for two consecutive years. Common causes include smoking habits, air pollution, and exposure to substances harmful to the respiratory system.
Symptoms of chronic bronchitis may include chronic or persistent cough with phlegm, shortness of breath, increased respiratory rate, and wheezing.
Bronchitis Management
In general, when dealing with bronchitis, it is crucial to maintain a strong immune system to support the recovery process. Adequate rest, a balanced nutritious diet, and proper hydration are essential.
It is also important to avoid other triggers that may worsen bronchitis symptoms, such as air pollution, cigarette smoke, and other harmful respiratory irritants.
For chest discomfort, pain relievers like ibuprofen can be taken if necessary. Bronchitis caused by infection often comes with fever, which can be managed using antipyretics such as paracetamol.
If accompanied by shortness of breath, especially with wheezing, a bronchodilator inhaler may help. In cases of low oxygen saturation, oxygen therapy should be considered.
Prevention
As a preventive measure, it is essential to adopt a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and to avoid habits that can harm respiratory health.
Personal protective equipment such as face masks can be used to shield yourself from pollution and harmful airborne substances. In addition, flu and pneumonia vaccinations can help prevent bronchitis, especially in more severe cases.
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