Acute Bronchitis: Symptoms & Causes

Acute Bronchitis is a contagious viral infection affecting the lungs' lower respiratory system. It is swelling of the large airways (bronchial tubes) along with mucus production. The swelling narrows the lung airways, which makes it difficult to breathe. Acute bronchitis symptoms are present for a short time.

It is mainly observed in the winter but can occur at any time of the year. The most vulnerable age group to getting chest infections are infants, young children, and the elderly. Other factors that can trigger Bronchitis in people are smoking, other lung problems, air pollution, lung irritants, etc. A chest cold treatment may often require a multimodal approach, and therapy strategies might change based on the patient's health history.

Symptoms

The symptoms of acute bronchitis are:

Causes

Acute bronchitis can be caused by bacterial and viral infections, environmental causes, and other lung diseases.

Viral infection

It is the main cause of acute bronchitis. The bronchitis can be brought on by the same viruses that lead to the common cold or flu.

Bacterial infection

In very few situations, viral bronchitis can progress to bacterial bronchitis. This can result from infections with bacteria such as Bordetella pertussis, Chlamydia, pneumonia, and Mycoplasma pneumonia (which causes whooping cough).

Risk Factors

Factors that increase your risk of acute bronchitis include:

Prevention

All cases of acute bronchitis cannot be prevented. But quitting smoking and being vaccinated against the flu can lower the risk of bronchitis and its consequences.

Diagnosis

Taking medical history and physical exams may frequently identify acute bronchitis. Screening can be performed to rule out conditions like pneumonia or asthma. Any of the following tests might be used to support the diagnosis:

Treatment

Acute bronchitis is less severe, exists for short periods and rarely causes complications. The symptoms often resolve on their own, with the lungs resuming their normal functions.

Usually, antibiotics are not required to treat acute bronchitis, and that’s because viruses cause most infections, and antibiotics are not effective against viruses. If bronchitis has advanced to pneumonia, then antibiotics may be necessary.

The treatment focuses on treating the symptoms and may include:

Do's and Don’ts

The highly contagious infection known as acute bronchitis causes inflammation of the bronchial passageways. When they are infected, these tubes expand and produce mucus, a sticky fluid. The symptoms are breathing problems, coughing, fever, etc. By following the dos and don'ts, it is easy to manage the condition and symptoms.

Following the above tips will ease your pain and decrease complications.

Care at Medicover Hospitals

At Medicover Hospitals, we have the most trusted team of doctors and medical experts who are experienced in providing excellent healthcare services to the patients with compassion and care. Our diagnostic department is equipped with modern technology and equipment to conduct the tests required for the diagnosis of Restless Leg Syndrome based on which a dedicated treatment plan is designed. We have an excellent team of Neurologists who diagnose and treat this condition with utmost precision that brings successful treatment outcomes.

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