Contents
What is Bronchitis?
Bronchitis is a respiratory disease which is characterized by the inflammation or swelling of lining of the bronchial tubes (bronchi), the air passages between the nose and the lungs. It is commonly referred to as chest cold.There are two main types of bronchitis: acute (lasting from one to three weeks) and chronic (lasting at least 3 months of the year for two years in a row).
Recovery Time
The infection will go away within 1 week without any specific treatment for acute bronchitis but it is advisable to see a doctor for any type of bronchitis. It is preventable and curable.Diagnosis
- Listening to breathing sound with a stethoscope
- Chest X-ray
- Lung function test using spirometer
- Analysis of sputum
- Blood test
- Oxygen saturation measurements (pulse oximetry)
FAQs prepared by doctor
Q1. What is Bronchitis?Bronchitis is the hyper-responsiveness of the airways – bronchus and bronchioles triggered by virus, bacteria or chemicals. It causes the bronchi and the bronchioles to constrict and hyper-secrete causing obstruction in airflow reaching the alveoli, where the exchange of gases takes place.
Q2. How do I get Bronchitis?
You can get bronchitis if you get exposed to bacteria or virus or any chemical which irritates the bronchi after inhalation.
You can get bronchitis if you get exposed to bacteria or virus or any chemical which irritates the bronchi after inhalation.
Q3. What is the treatment for bronchitis?
Inhaled bronchodilators, steroids, expectorants and antibiotics are the mainstay for the treatment of acute bronchitis. Mucolytics are used additionally in case of chronic bronchitis.
Inhaled bronchodilators, steroids, expectorants and antibiotics are the mainstay for the treatment of acute bronchitis. Mucolytics are used additionally in case of chronic bronchitis.
Q4. How long does it take to cure? And are there any chances of recurrence?
You should be feeling better after a few days of treatment. Recurrence happens only if exposed again. Chronic bronchitis requires prolonged treatment.
You should be feeling better after a few days of treatment. Recurrence happens only if exposed again. Chronic bronchitis requires prolonged treatment.
Q5. How do I prevent Bronchitis?
You can prevent bronchitis by wearing appropriate mask.
You can prevent bronchitis by wearing appropriate mask.
Q6. What are the complications of Bronchitis?
Bronchitis may lead to Pneumonia, if not treated appropriately.
Bronchitis may lead to Pneumonia, if not treated appropriately.
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