What is Bronchitis?
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi (large airways) in the lungs,
occurring when an infection causes the thin mucous membrane linings of these
airways to become irritated and inflamed. The result is the production of mucus in
the lungs and a persistent cough that may last several days or weeks.
The Two Types of Bronchitis
Chronic bronchitis: This is not necessarily caused by infection and is most often
part of more serious lung conditions. The most common chronic bronchitis
symptoms are characterized by a persistent cough that produces phlegm for at
least three months a year for two consecutive years.
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Acute bronchitis is recognized as a cough and the production of phlegm which
may be accompanied by symptoms such as shortness of breath and wheezing, as
well as a mild fever in some cases. Acute bronchitis commonly occurs after an
upper respiratory infection such as a cold, influenza, or a sinus infection. For this
reason, you may also experience other symptoms such as muscle aches, nasal
congestion, and a sore throat in addition to bronchitis symptoms.
Diagnosing Bronchitis
Bronchitis generally clears up on its own after a few weeks, although sometimes
the cough may be especially disruptive or complications may prompt you to
seek medical attention. In addition, treatment differs for chronic bronchitis and
acute bronchitis, so the correct diagnosis can offer the most relief by addressing
any underlying infections. Generally if symptoms persist or you are worried about
their severity, it’s a good idea to seek medical attention.
Reasons to Seek Medical Attention for Bronchitis
● A severe cough that persistently disrupts sleep
● Severe wheezing that makes it difficult to breathe
● Worsening cough symptoms after a week
● Blood-tinged phlegm
● A mild fever that lasts longer than three days, or a fever over 101°F
● Repeated bouts of bronchitis
● You have a chronic lung or heart condition, as this increases your chance of
developing complications
Your doctor will be able to diagnose bronchitis by listening to your chest with a stethoscope. You may also be asked to have a chest X-ray, and in some cases a
sputum culture (laboratory test to determine the presence of bacteria in the
phlegm) may be done, especially if a more serious condition such as pneumonia or
tuberculosis is suspected.
What Causes Bronchitis?
Bronchitis is generally caused by a virus such as those that cause the common
cold and influenza. It is therefore common to develop bronchitis as a secondary
infection which follows flu-like symptoms, or is accompanied by them.
There are, however, other causes of bronchitis including certain bacterial
infections as well as environmental irritants such as cigarette smoke, pollution,
dust, and chemical fumes. The avoidance of smoking can act as a natural cure for
bronchitis, as prevention can be the greatest deterrent for illness.
Some people are also more at risk of developing bronchitis such as the
elderly, people with a lowered immune system, those who are continuously
exposed to lung irritants (such as smoke), and people working in certain
occupational settings.
Help for Bronchitis
Most cases of Bronchitis resolve without medical treatment provided that
there are no complications, although it may take some time before the cough
disappears completely.
Treatments for Bronchitis
Self-Care Treatment
Natural cures for bronchitis include focusing some attention to maintaining
personal health. What your body needs most when trying to fight off any infection
is plenty of rest and water. You can also try an over-the-counter cough
medicine that helps to loosen the cough. While this may make you cough more, it
will help to clear the infection sooner. It is important not to suppress the
cough, as this can cause further infection by drying out the mucous membranes.
Thus, cough suppressants are generally only recommended at night to help to you
get some rest if the cough is interfering with sleep. In addition, you can try using a
humidifier to soothe the cough, and avoid lung irritants (such as cigarette smoke).
If you are a smoker – it is essential that you stop smoking naturally.
Medical Treatment
Antibiotics are not usually prescribed for bronchitis as the most common
causes are viral infections. However, if your doctor suspects a bacterial infection,
or if you are at high risk for developing complications (such as those people with a
lung disease or asthma) antibiotics may be recommended as a precautionary
measure. Remember, that as antibiotics rob your system of ‘good’ bacteria – it is
important to take probiotics, such as live culture yogurt, after a course of
antibiotics.
Natural Herbal and Homeopathic Remedies
Herbal and homeopathic remedies have been used for centuries to treat a number of conditions, and so it is not surprising to find that natural cures or supplements
to alleviate bronchitis symptoms have been supplied by nature. Herbs such as
Althea Officinalis (Marshmallow), Hyssopus Officinalis (Hyssop), and Sambucus
Nigra (Elder) have long been used for their soothing effect on inflamed and
irritated mucous membranes, while promoting respiratory health and
vitality.
There are also a few tissue salts known for their tonic effect on the overall
respiratory system such as Bryonia (30C) and Kali. Mur. (6C.) While these
ingredients help relieve troubling bronchitis symptoms, other remedies are
especially helpful in assisting with speedy recovery and boosting the
immune system to help your body fight off infection.
Herbs such as Echinacea purpurea, Astragalus membranaceous, Inula helenium
and Withania somnifera are commonly used for their antiviral, antifungal, and
antibacterial properties, as well as their ability to support the immune system.
These herbs work as a tonic for the immune system and are often recommended
to prevent and assist recovery from illness or infection.
Related Natural Remedies:
Mucus-Clear:
Homeopathic remedy clears phlegm and relieves throat congestion
Learn More
BronchoSoothe:
Homeopathic remedy relieves tightening of the chest to open airways
Learn More
BioVent Drops:
Supports healthy lungs, plus helps keep air passages open for easy breathing
Learn More
ImmunityPlus:
Provides complete and effective immune system support
Learn More
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