Bronchitis

Overview

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lower respiratory tract. It can be acute which is temporary or chronic or permanent where the effects on the structure of the respiratory tract have changed due to prolonged inflammation.

Signs and Symptoms

Cough with/without phlegm (sputum), Fever (in acute bronchitis), Chest pain/discomfort, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Widened chest

Common Causes

Infection by viruses/bacteria/fungus (for acute or exacerbation of chronic bronchitis), Smoking, Alpha-1 anti-trypsin deficiency, Air pollution

Risk Factors

Infection by viruses/bacteria/fungus (for acute or exacerbation of chronic bronchitis) Smoking, Alpha-1 anti-trypsin deficiency, Air pollution

Investigation Techniques

Full blood count, Sputum culture, Serum alpha-1 anti-trypsin level, Spirometry, Arterial Blood Gas

Treatment and Prevention

Antibiotics (for acute and exacerbation of chronic bronchitis) Inhalers, Steroids therapy (for exacerbation of chronic bronchitis), Pulmonary rehabilitation exercise, Influenza and pneumococcal vaccination, Oxygen therapy, Smoking cessation