Bronchitis is a common health condition characterized by symptoms like fatigue, breathing difficulty, and a cough that worsens at night. It can be classified into two types: acute and chronic. The former usually results from a viral infection and goes away on its own in most cases, while the latter is a long-term problem that can only be managed. This post discusses the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for acute bronchitis.
Causes and risks factors
The influenza virus—similar to the virus that triggers colds and flu—causes bronchitis. The ailment can also result from the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus, and rhinovirus, among other variants. Furthermore, certain bacteria can cause bronchitis in people with chronic health conditions. Examples include Bordetella pertussis, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Chlamydia pneumoniae.
While anyone can contract bronchitis, some have a higher risk than others. The following factors make a person more susceptible to this disease:
- Low immunity
Older people, infants, toddlers, and those struggling with underlying health conditions are at a higher risk due to lower levels of infection resistance. - Harmful irritants
Those working in textile or grain factories are exposed to harmful chemical fumes, which increases infection risk. - Gastric reflux
People with repeated bouts of intense heartburn are more susceptible. - Pollution
Air pollution caused by dust and toxic gasses can impact the lungs negatively, increasing the risk.
Signs and symptoms
A cough is the tell-tale sign of bronchitis. Those with a persistent cough for a week or more likely have the condition. One usually coughs up mucus (sputum) or experiences a dry cough. The other discomforts include:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Slight fever and chills
- Chest discomfort
- A headache that feels like a cold
- Body pain
These symptoms might improve in about a week. However, one may have a persistent cough for several weeks, even after their condition improves.
Treatment and management
This disorder generally resolves on its own within a week or ten days. However, one can follow these tips to speed up recovery:
- Take plenty of rest.
- Drink an adequate amount of fluids.
- Use treatments that kill the virus and relieve cough by thinning and expelling mucus.
Natural and home remedies
Numerous remedies can help people recover from acute bronchitis:
- Honey
Honey is a natural remedy that can alleviate the symptoms. One may consume two spoons of it to reduce coughing frequency. - Humidifier
Humidifiers relieve cough by expelling mucus from the airways. One should use a clean humidifier to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. - Cold-air masks
Patients may use a cold-air face mask if cold air worsens their cough and causes shortness of breath. Such masks help clear clogged airways. - Avoiding irritants
People can limit their exposure to lung irritants by wearing a mask and staying away from house cleaning sprays.
Acute bronchitis can be distressing, so those who are immunocompromised must take appropriate precautions. One may visit a healthcare provider if the symptoms worsen or persist for over a few weeks. The doctor will examine them and recommend a suitable treatment.
