Bronchitis

Bronchitis is a lung condition in which the branches of the windpipe are inflamed. These branches are the bronchi and they run through the lungs. The inside of the bronchi is lined with a mucous membrane. In bronchitis, this mucous membrane is inflamed.

Bronchitis can be acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis usually develops after a cold or flu. In chronic bronchitis, the bronchi are inflamed for a longer period. Chronic bronchitis, together with emphysema, falls under COPD. COPD stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

When the lining of the lungs becomes irritated, this can lead to inflammation in that area. To protect the mucous membrane, extra mucus is produced. This mucus triggers a cough reflex. Coughing is important to expel the virus or bacteria from the bronchi.

What causes bronchitis?

There are different causes of bronchitis:

• Viral infection. Acute bronchitis usually develops due to a viral infection, for example the flu virus.
• Bacterial infection. A bacterial infection is much less common. An example of this is infection by a pneumococcal bacterium.
• Inhaling irritants. These can be toxic fumes, but also cigarette smoke.
• Smoking. This often leads to chronic bronchitis. Passive smoking also falls under this.

Who is at higher risk for bronchitis?

Anyone can get bronchitis. However, some groups are at higher risk:

• Older adults (over 65). Due to age, the quality of the mucous membrane is reduced.
• Children (younger than three years). Due to age, the quality of the mucous membrane is not yet optimal.
• (Passive) smokers. In this group, the mucous membrane is overloaded.
• People with problems or diseases of the immune system. The immune system then protects the mucous membrane less well.
• People who work with irritants. The irritants damage the mucous membrane too much.

What are the symptoms of bronchitis?

Symptoms of acute bronchitis resemble those of a common cold. However, there are differences.

Symptoms of bronchitis include:

• Cough after a cold or flu.
• Initially a dry cough, then a productive cough with mucus (colorless, green, yellow, or gray).
• Chest pressure.
• Wheezing.
• Fever.
• Shortness of breath.
• Pain when coughing.
• Fatigue.

In chronic bronchitis there is no fever. The symptoms are present without a preceding cold or flu.

How is bronchitis treated?

Acute bronchitis is usually not treated. It typically resolves on its own within two weeks. Coughing may last longer than two weeks. The mucous membrane remains somewhat irritated even though there is no longer an infection. In a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be used.

In chronic bronchitis, medications are often given to dilate the bronchi. If the bronchi are severely damaged, extra oxygen can be administered. For chronic bronchitis, physical therapy is also often recommended. This can help get the bronchi into good or better condition. A physical therapist who has specialized further in the lungs is the pulmonary physical therapist.

What can you do yourself if you have bronchitis?

• Try to rest. Bed rest is not necessary, but heavy exertion slows recovery.
• Drink enough water.
• Eat a healthy diet, especially extra vegetables and fruit.
• Inhaling steam helps. Warm, moist air helps loosen mucus.
• If there is pain, take painkillers if needed.
• With chronic bronchitis, try to keep the lungs in good condition by being physically active.

How can you reduce the risk of bronchitis?

Acute bronchitis is best prevented by avoiding a cold or the flu.

• Wash your hands regularly.
• Eat a healthy diet.
• Ensure fresh air indoors. A virus from another person easily lingers indoors. By ventilating well, you reduce this risk.
• Maintain good physical fitness by exercising or playing sports regularly.