How Serious is Bronchitis

Bronchitis is a lung disease characterized by inflammation of the airway tubes or the bronchi. It can be caused due to bacteria or virus and can be found in people of any age group. Bronchitis can be acute (that which appear suddenly) or chronic (that which lasts for a long time). Acute bronchitis appears suddenly, is more severe, but, is also treated quickly. On the contrary, chronic bronchitis is more serious as it lasts for a long time.

As mentioned above, bronchitis is caused due to bacteria as well as virus. Several bacteria, including Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and viruses that cause influenza (flu) can also cause bronchitis. This respiratory disorder is also caused by inhaling smoke, dust or airborne irritants for a longer period. Smoking is also one of the top most causes of bronchitis in people. It should be noted that people with a weakened immune system, like children and older people, are more susceptible to this disease.

Symptoms of bronchitis are similar to the signs and symptoms of any other respiratory disorders. Cough, excess production of mucus, discomfort in chest, shortness of breath, wheezing, fever, chills, etc., are the prominent symptoms of this condition. Mucus producing cough, which usually worsens in the morning, is the major symptom of chronic bronchitis. It may cause several severe disorders of breathing like breathing very fast, wheezing, shortness of breath, etc.

Chronic bronchitis is very serious as it tends to worsen over a number of years. It also leads to several complications like asthma, emphysema, pulmonary hypertension, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), heart failure, etc. People suffering from chronic bronchitis also suffer from frequent respiratory disorders. Note that acute bronchitis is less severe than chronic bronchitis. Acute bronchitis, if treated properly, can subside within a couple of weeks. However, if left untreated, it can turn chronic.

It should be noted that only some forms of bronchitis are contagious. Bronchitis caused due to viral or bacterial infection is contagious. On the other hand, if it is caused due to airborne pollutants, smoking, etc., is not contagious.

Only chronic bronchitis can be life-threatening, if it progresses to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or any other irreversible lung disorder. It can also be life-threatening in case of older people suffering from chronic bronchitis. Heart complications resulting from chronic bronchitis makes it a deadly disease.

Viral bronchitis can be treated by taking rest and drinking plenty of fluids. The doctor may even prescribe medications to treat cough and fever. On the other hand, bacterial bronchitis is treated with the help of antibiotics. Most cases of acute bronchitis can be successfully treated. If suffering from chronic bronchitis, the doctor may also advise the person to undertake pulmonary rehabilitation to improve breathing and lifestyle.

In order to prevent bronchitis and respiratory or lung diseases in particular, you should quit smoking completely (active as well as passive). At the same time, it is essential to stay away from chemicals and airborne pollutants. One should use a mask if exposed to pollution every day. Secondly, one should stay away from people suffering from any respiratory disorders to avoid contracting these diseases.

Lastly, note that maintaining cleanliness and hygiene, having a proper diet and healthy lifestyle can keep several infectious diseases at bay, including viral bronchitis. And, remember smoking kills! Take care!