Learn about symptoms, treatment and when to consider this infectious disease acute or chronic

Many times when you have a severe case of the flu or influenza, the symptoms are Persistent cough, Chest pain and feeling tired All day long. While this may simply be a delay in these illnesses, it may also be the discomfort associated with bronchitis. Therefore, it must be paid attention to.

Bronchitis, also known as the “chest cold,” is considered one of the most common infectious diseases, along with the common cold, sinusitis, and the flu. “Being a bronchial tube, Inflammation of the airways that carry air to the lungs. This can lead to a cough with mucus and even difficulty breathing. ” said pulmonologist Óscar López.

Bronchitis is usually caused by The same viruses cause colds, flu and influenza. Additionally, air pollution, dust or toxic gases in the environment or workplace may also predispose us to the disease in the long term.

Because it is caused by microorganisms, Antibiotics are not recommended Because these drugs cannot kill the virus.

acute bronchitis

Bronchitis is divided into acute and chronic based on the consistency of symptoms. “Acute bronchitis is the most common. It occurs when it is caused by an infection after a cold or flusaid physician Eduardo Castro.

Symptoms include persistent cough, lasting up to 20 days.reason colorless mucusalthough it can also be yellow or green due to bacterial infection.

whistle or Whining when breathing, mild fever, chest pressure or pain These are other symptoms of acute bronchitis. The cough may last for several weeks after illness.

chronic bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is considered a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and is characterized by Inflamed bronchi produce more mucus secretionwhich can lead to more coughing and difficulty breathing.

This type of disease occurs when you are exposed to the environment for a long time Smoking, breathing polluted air, smoke and dust.

“The important thing to consider about chronic bronchitis is that it can reappear during several seasons of the year or never go away, and its symptoms are constant. The most common complaint is a persistent cough,” adds Lopez .

Also Read | Home Remedies: How to Relieve Dry and Persistent Cough

Symptoms of this type of bronchitis are: Cough, wheezing, and chest discomfort. “Smoker’s cough” is known to cause excess mucus.

What to do when you have bronchitis

period Diagnosis is difficult in the first days of disease, because the symptoms are very similar to other infections. However, during a physical exam, a specialist will listen to your lungs to determine if inflammation and mucus are present.

Some doctors recommend chest X-rays for better diagnosis, sputum tests (mucus coughed up from the lungs), and lung function tests.

Experts agree Acute bronchitis will get better on its own, there is no need to take antibiotics as these drugs do not fight viruses. Recommendations for treating this condition are to rest, stay hydrated, use a clean humidifier or cold air vaporizer, use a saline solution to remove mucus, and take pain relievers to help control symptoms.

although For chronic bronchitis, treatments that help you breathe better are recommended and control symptoms. Recommendations include: quitting smoking, taking medications to help clear your airways, oxygen therapy to help your breathing, and pulmonary rehabilitation.