Bronchitis – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Self-Care

• Cough that may produce clear, yellow, or green sputum
• Breathlessness
• Chest discomfort or tightness
• Fatigue
• Mild fever or chills
• Sore bronchitis throat
• Nasal congestion or runny nose

• A persistent cough that may produce clear, yellow, or green sputum
• Breathlessness
• Chest discomfort or tightness
• Fatigue
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Bluish tint to the lips or fingernail beds due to low oxygen levels
• Swelling in the ankles, feet, or legs due to fluid accumulation
• Weight loss and loss of appetite

Bronchitis can be potentially caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Viral or bacterial infections: Acute bronchitis is commonly caused by viral infections. At the same time, bacterial infections can also play a role in both acute and also chronic bronchitis.
• Irritants: Exposure to any irritants such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, dust, and chemicals can trigger bronchitis.
• Allergies: Allergens such as pollen, mold, and pet dander can cause inflammation in the bronchial tubes, leading to bronchitis.
• Genetics: Certain genetic factors may increase the risk of chronic bronchitis, especially chronic bronchitis caused by smoking.
• Occupational exposure: People working in industries exposed to dust, fumes, or other irritants may be at increased risk for bronchitis.
• Age: Young children and some older adults are more susceptible to developing bronchitis due to their weaker immune systems.
• Weakened immune system: People who have a potentially weakened immune systems may be more susceptible to bronchitis due to chronic illnesses or certain medications.
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): People who have COPD, which is a group of lung diseases that includes chronic bronchitis, are at increased risk for developing bronchitis.
• Asthma: People with asthma, a chronic condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, may be at increased risk for developing bronchitis.
• Heart failure: People with heart failure may be more susceptible to bronchitis due to fluid buildup in the lungs.

It is very important to note that not everyone exposed to these risk factors will develop bronchitis, and some may develop bronchitis without any known risk factors. However, understanding these risk factors can help individuals take steps to reduce their risk and maintain good respiratory health.

Diagnosis of bronchitis typically involves a combination of a physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests. Some of the tests that may be used to diagnose bronchitis include:

• Chest X-ray: It can help to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms to bronchitis, such as pneumonia or lung cancer. It can also reveal signs of inflammation in the lungs, such as the thickening of the bronchial tubes.
• Pulmonary function test (PFT): A non-invasive test that measures how well the lungs function. It can help to identify obstructive lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis and asthma by measuring how much air a person can potentially inhale and then exhale, how quickly they can exhale, and how much air remains in their lungs after exhaling.
• Sputum tests: A sample of sputum (mucus coughed up from the lungs) can be analyzed in a laboratory to determine whether a bacterial infection causes bronchitis. This can help to guide treatment decisions, such as whether antibiotics are necessary.
• Other tests that can also be used to diagnose bronchitis include blood tests, which can help to identify signs of infection or inflammation, and a bronchoscopy, which involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera on end into the airways to visualize the swollen bronchial tubes and collecting tissue or fluid samples for analysis.

Not all of these tests may be necessary for every case of bronchitis care. The specific tests used will depend on the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and other factors. If you are experiencing bronchitis symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Treatment for bronchitis depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Treatment may involve a combination of medications, therapies, lifestyle changes, and home remedies. Some of the most common treatments for bronchitis include:

• Medications: If a bacterial infection causes bronchitis, antibiotics may also be prescribed to help clear the infection. Other medications may also relieve symptoms, such as bronchodilators to help open up the airways and reduce wheezing, cough suppressants to reduce coughing, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
• Therapies: In some cases, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, or chest physical therapy may be recommended to help improve lung function and reduce symptoms.
• Lifestyle changes: Changes such as quitting smoking, avoiding exposure to irritants such as air pollution or dust, and staying hydrated can help prevent or reduce bronchitis’s severity. People with chronic bronchitis treatment may also benefit from regular exercise to help improve lung function and overall health.
• Home remedies: Some home remedies that may help to relieve symptoms of bronchitis include using a humidifier or steam inhalation to help loosen mucus and soothe the airways, drinking warm liquids such as tea or broth to help relieve cough and congestion, and getting plenty of rest to help the body recover.

If you have bronchitis, several self-care measures may help you feel better and speed up your recovery. Here are some practical steps:

• Take rest: Getting plenty of rest can potentially help your body fight against the infection and reduce fatigue.
• Use a humidifier: The process of adding moisture to the air with the help of a humidifier can help to soothe the airways and reduce coughing.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking fluids can help thin out mucus and make coughing easier.
• Use nasal spray to relieve the nose: Over-the-counter saline nasal sprays or drops can help to relieve congestion and also dryness in the nasal passages.
• Take lozenges: Throat lozenges or cough drops can help to relieve sore throat and cough.

It is important to note that over-the-counter medications should be used with caution, especially in children. Carefully read the instructions on any medication before giving it to yourself or your child, and follow the recommended dosage and frequency. If you have concerns about using over-the-counter products, consult your healthcare provider. Additionally, it is very important to seek medical attention if your symptoms persist or worsen or if you develop difficulty breathing or bronchitis chest pain.

How to Feel Better With Bronchitis?

Ongo Care is a telemedicine platform that provides on-demand virtual healthcare services. You can receive ongoing care and support through Ongo Care if you have bronchitis. Some of the benefits of using Ongo Care for bronchitis include:

• Access to healthcare providers: With Ongo Care, you can connect with licensed healthcare providers from your home. This can be especially beneficial if you feel too sick to leave your home or live in a remote area.
• Convenient appointments: Ongo Care offers appointments at flexible times, including evenings and weekends, so you can receive care at a time that works for you.
• Prescription refills: If you have been prescribed medication for bronchitis, Ongo Care may be able to provide prescription refills as needed.
• Symptom monitoring: With Ongo Care, you can receive ongoing monitoring and support for your symptoms. This can also be especially helpful if you have chronic bronchitis or your symptoms are not improving.

It is important to note that while telemedicine platforms like Ongo Care can be helpful for ongoing care and support, they should not be used as a substitute for emergency medical care. If you are experiencing difficulty breathing or chest pain, seek immediate medical attention.

Frequently Asked Questions