Bronchitis

Bronchitis disease


Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchus (bronchus) (airways into the lungs).

Bronchitis usually mild and will momenually recover completely. But in patients who have chronic diseases (eg heart disease or lung disease) and in the elderly, bronchitis can be serious.

cause
Infectious bronchitis is caused by viruses, bacteria and organisms that resemble bacteria (Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydia)

Recurrent bronchitis attacks can occur in smokers and patients with lung disease and chronic respiratory tract. Recurrent infections may be a result of
:

chronic sinusitis
bronchiectasis
allergy
Enlarged tonsils and adenoids in children.
Irritative bronchitis can be caused by :

Various tipes of dust
Fumes from strong acids, ammonia, some organic solvents, chlorine, hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide and bromine
Air pollution irritants ozone and nitrogen dioxide
Tobacco and other cigarette.
symptom
Symptoms include :

cough with phlegm (sputum can be colored red)
shortness of breath when exercising or mild activity
often suffer from respiratory infections (eg influenza)
asthma
tired
swelling of ankles, feet and legs left and right
face, palms or reddish mucous membranes
looks rosy cheeks
headache
impaired vision.
Infectious bronchitis often begins with symptoms such as runny nose, ie runny nose, fatigue, chills, back pain, muscle aches, mild fever and sore throat.

Cough usually marks the beginning of bronchitis. At first it did not cough up phlegm, but 1-2 days later will issue a white or yellow phlegm. Furthermore, sputum will multiply, yellow or green.

In severe bronchitis, after most of the other symptoms improve, sometimes there is a high fever for 3-5 days and the cough may persist for several weeks.

Shortness of breath occurs when the airway is blocked. Often found wheezing breath sounds, especially after coughing. Pneumonia can occur.

diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually made based on symptoms, especially the presence of mucus. On examination using a stethoscope to hear crackles or abnormal respiratory sounds.

Other tests are commonly performed :

Lung function tests
Arterial blood gas
Chest x-rays.
treatment
To reduce fever and malaise, to the adult bronchitis sufferers could be given aspirin or acetaminophen ; to children should only be given acetaminophen. It is advisable to rest and drink plenty of fluids.