Bronchitis (cont.)
What are the symptoms of acute bronchitis?
Inflammation of the bronchial tubes narrows the inside opening of the bronchial tubes. Narrowing of the bronchial tubes result in increased resistance,
this increase makes it more difficult for air to move to and from the lungs. This can cause wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. The cough may consist of sputum due to the secretions from the inflamed cells that line the bronchi. By coughing, the body attempts to expel secretions that clog the bronchial tubes. If these secretions contain certain inflammatory cells, discoloration of the mucus may result often in a green or yellow color. Sometimes the severity of the inflammation may result in some bleeding.
As with any other infection, there may be associated fever, chills, aches,
soreness and the general sensation of feeling poorly or malaise.
When does a cold become acute bronchitis?
Anatomically, the larynx divides the upper and lower airways. Colds tend to
affect the mouth, throat, and nasal passages while bronchitis describes specific
inflammation of the bronchial tubes. The two illnesses can exist at the same
time and may be caused by the same virus infection. A cold does not necessarily
lead to bronchitis.
When should I call my doctor about my cough?
While a cough can be irritating and interfere with activities such as sleep, by
itself, it needs little care. Drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration,
humidifying the air, and occasionally medication to suppress the cough are
appropriate home care treatments.
However, medical care should be accessed immediately should shortness of
breath occur. Fever, chills, wheezing, and signs of dehydration (lightheadedness,
weakness, rapid heart rate) are also reasons to seek medical care.
Most coughs tend to subside after a few days. If the cough persists and mucus
tends to be discolored, one should seek medical care.
In patients with asthma, wheezing may increase with acute bronchitis. Use of a prescribed
albuterol inhaler (Ventolin
HFA, Proventil HFA, ProAir) is
reasonable; however, asthma patients should contact their health care practitioner if the
symptoms of wheezing and shortness of breath do not resolve promptly.
Next: How is acute bronchitis diagnosed? »
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