Causes of bronchitis. Types of bronchitis, symptoms and treatment in adults. Inhalations for bronchitis: is it possible or not? It's time to sound the alarm! In your case, the likelihood of getting bronchitis is huge

An important component of the human respiratory system is the bronchi. They connect the trachea and lung tissue and have some similarities with tubes. At the level of the 4th-5th thoracic vertebrae, the trachea divides into two main, large bronchi, which enter directly into the lungs. Already in the lung tissue, the main bronchi are divided into smaller ones, forming a bronchial tree, where small bronchioles reach only a few millimeters in diameter.

The entire surface of the bronchi is covered with epithelium with microscopic cilia and mucous glands responsible for the production of protective secretions. When various types of infections enter the body, intensive mucus production begins, caused by the inflammatory process. This is how bronchitis begins in adults. may also be hidden in other factors, which we will consider below.

Main causes and classification of acute form

Experts identify several main reasons that serve as an impetus for the occurrence of bronchitis in adults:

viruses that can enter the body of adults through contact with a person suffering from influenza or another disease caused by adenoviruses, parainfluenza or respiratory syncytial infection;
Bacteria entering the body begin to actively multiply and cause inflammation. The cause of bacterial bronchitis in an adult can be streptococci, staphylococci, pneumococci, mycobacterium tuberculosis, as well as atypical representatives of pathogenic flora - chlamydia and mycoplasma;

allergens, such as plant pollen, household and industrial dust, animal hair, food and drinks, medications. An exacerbation of a disease caused by such a cause occurs upon contact with an irritant;
toxic substances that can cause general intoxication of the body. Against this background, bronchitis develops in adults;
fungus (a rather rare provoking factor of the disease). At risk are weak and premature children, as well as adults with reduced immunity after intensive treatment.

In some cases, there may be several causes of the disease; for example, infectious bronchitis is initially diagnosed, but then it is replaced by bacterial bronchitis. In this case, there is a mixed etiology. There are other specific causes of bronchitis in adults, which are characteristic of its individual types.

Why does it appear?

Acute bronchitis occurs suddenly and is accompanied by an increase in temperature. In this case, the inflammatory process does not last long, and after recovery the bronchi are completely regenerated.

The causes of this type of disease in adults are:

general hypothermia of the body or prolonged inhalation of too cold or dry hot air;
smoking or frequent consumption of alcoholic beverages, which weaken the body’s protective functions. Among adults suffering from bronchitis, about 75% are active smokers;

regular inhalation of polluted air. Dirt and dust particles irritate the bronchial mucosa, causing inflammation;
complications after suffering an acute respiratory illness or flu can develop into bronchitis;
infection caused by viruses, fungi and bacteria. Penetrating into the respiratory system, pathogenic flora irritates the bronchial epithelium.

Causes of the chronic form

Chronic bronchitis is called bronchitis, which torments adult patients for 2 or more years. In this case, the cough continues for at least 3 months a year. The inflammatory process progresses slowly, deforming and narrowing the walls of the bronchi.

Causes:

heredity and congenital anomalies of the bronchial tree. This makes the bronchi vulnerable to the negative effects of external factors. Even minor provocateurs can cause spasms and increased mucus production;
working in harmful conditions that promote inflammation. Regularly entering the bronchi, the irritant (for example, coal dust) does not have time to be completely eliminated, which provokes in adults;

exposure to cigarette smoke. There is even a concept “”: the disease is caused by constant irritation of the epithelium by smoke and the deposition of harmful substances and resins on it;
chemical impurities in the air, for example, ammonia, carbon monoxide and a number of others;
a decrease in the body’s protective functions, which makes it possible for inflammation to progress;
penetration of pathogenic microorganisms into the body;
weather conditions, but they only serve as a positive background for the development of existing inflammation.

Diagnostics

To correctly determine the type of bronchitis in adults, the doctor uses the following diagnostic techniques:

examination. During its course, the specialist will be able to determine the presence of possible pathologies of the chest, and will also ask the patient about disturbing symptoms and the time of their appearance;
Auscultation with a stethoscope, allowing you to clearly hear various noises and wheezing. Bronchitis is characterized by hard inhalation and exhalation, and with the accumulation of sputum - scattered wheezing;

(general), based on the results of which you can learn about the course of the infectious-inflammatory process. Bacterial bronchitis is characterized by an increase in leukocytes due to the presence of immature neutrophils and an increase in ESR;

If the cause of bronchitis in an adult was a viral infection, then the analysis will show a reduced number of immune cells, as well as an acceleration of ESR.

radiography. With its help, you can see a change in the basal pattern of the bronchi. The presence of the disease will be confirmed if the bronchi located near the middle of the chest are more contrasting;

Bronchoscopy is often performed to detect chronic bronchitis and determine its stage. To carry out the procedure, a special device, a bronchoscope, is used, which is inserted through the mouth.

To reduce the risk of bronchitis, it makes sense to take preventive measures.

To do this, you should eat rationally, including fresh vegetables and fruits in your daily menu, walk a lot in the fresh air and play sports. Avoiding stressful situations, as well as getting rid of bad habits, will have a positive impact on your health.

These measures will increase the body's resistance to viruses and bacteria.

This will be interesting: .

Untimely or inadequate treatment of acute bronchitis often transforms it into a chronic form.

And from chronic bronchitis to asthma it’s a stone’s throw. That’s why it’s so important to stop the inflammatory process in the bronchi in the bud!

Our expert - therapist Irina Moiseeva.

Antibiotics can wait

Alas, there is no magic pill that you can take to instantly forget about bronchitis. The whole difficulty of its treatment is that the causes of this disease are very diverse. Among the “provocateurs” of bronchitis are viruses, bacterial infections, chemical, physical and allergic factors.

Recently, chlamydia and mycoplasma have become increasingly common among the causative agents of the disease. Infections of this type require special diagnosis and treatment. And although in 80% of cases viruses are “to blame” for the occurrence of the disease, other causes cannot be discounted.

Therefore, self-medicating bronchitis is dangerous. It is better to seek the help of an experienced doctor. Especially when it comes to antibacterial therapy. The decision about whether antibiotics are needed in the treatment of acute bronchitis can only be made by a specialist. Indeed, if the disease is viral or allergic, these medications are not only useless, but also harmful. They are prescribed only for bacterial infections. The type of antibiotic, dose and method of administration are also determined by the attending physician.

Damn mines!

Of course, a cough that makes breathing difficult, wakes you up in the middle of the night and prevents you from falling asleep peacefully is not the most pleasant symptom. However, with bronchitis, our task is not to fight this phenomenon, but to make it more productive. After all, with the help of cough, which is a kind of protective mechanism, our body is cleansed of sputum and the microbes it contains.

However, if the cough is very strong, it is advisable to make it “quieter.” Antitussives should only be prescribed by the attending physician. They should be taken only for severe dry cough. Usually on the 2-3rd day of illness their use is stopped.

For a wet cough, it is necessary to take expectorants to help clear the bronchi of phlegm. However, in no case should you combine both types of drugs - this can lead to blockage of the bronchi with mucus.

Lollipops for sore throats are sold at every kiosk, but most of them only soothe the pain; they are powerless against pathogenic bacteria. “Lozenges”, which are sold exclusively in pharmacies, have a therapeutic effect. The seriousness of the drug is usually indicated by labels on the packaging, such as “contains an antiseptic” or “double antibacterial action.”

To ease breathing during bronchitis, inhalations (several times a day) will help. To prepare them, take 1 tbsp. a spoonful of medicinal herbs: leaves of coltsfoot, chamomile, sage, thyme. The raw materials are poured with boiling water and covered with a lid. Add 1 teaspoon of baking soda and a few drops of menthol or eucalyptus oil to the infusion. However, it must be taken into account that inhalations with extracts of medicinal plants can be dangerous for allergy sufferers.

To wash or not to wash?

From early childhood, we heard from our mothers that it is harmful for a sick person to wash himself, otherwise he might catch a cold again. This is a very common myth, apparently left to us as a legacy from those ancient times when the washing process was fraught with considerable difficulties and dangers.

In fact, if every home has its own bath, there is no need to ignore the washing procedure during illness. Firstly, it is simply unhygienic, and secondly, the skin, just like the kidneys and liver, helps the body remove toxins that prevent it from functioning normally. During illness, their number increases sharply - the active activity of viruses makes itself felt, so all excretory organs work at maximum load. And if you do not free the skin from impurities in a timely manner, then cleansing the body will be more difficult and the disease will last longer than usual.

Of course, you need to make sure that the patient does not catch a cold when leaving the bathroom. But otherwise there are no restrictions on washing. True, all this does not apply to the bathhouse: being exposed to excessive heat loads if you are sick is simply harmful. Moreover, at elevated temperatures, any heating is generally contraindicated. Moreover, the ban remains in effect for another 10 days after the thermometer has returned to normal levels.

Be healthy, don't cough!

To combat a cough, it is important to drink as much fluid as possible - drinking plenty of fluids will prevent dehydration due to elevated temperature, restore water balance, and also help thin and remove mucus more quickly and efficiently. But too hot a liquid irritates an already sore throat, which impedes recovery. Alkaline mineral waters are especially useful.

Food should be light, but high in calories - the body requires a lot of strength to fight the disease. Lean chicken, scrambled eggs, vegetable soups, porridges are suitable, but it is better to avoid fatty, fried and smoked foods - they irritate both the stomach and the inflamed mucous membranes. Fresh fruits rich in vitamins will be beneficial. Just don’t overuse citrus fruits: they contain a lot of vitamin C, which is important for a sick body, but their excessive acidity still irritates the throat. It is better to pay attention to berries and apples (they are excellent for removing toxins). The main dietary commandment of the patient: eat often, little by little and make sure that the food is not too spicy or hot.

Practice

Delicious recipes

Fresh vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins are also necessary for bronchitis.

Freshly squeezed juices are also good. For example, carrot. It can calm even a severe cough. Add warm water (1:1) and a few teaspoons of honey (or sugar if you are intolerant to honey) to the juice. You should drink this juice 1 tbsp. spoon 4-5 times a day before meals. For kids - 1 teaspoon 3-4 times a day.

An effective folk remedy is a mixture of milk and goat fat (fat can be purchased on the market). Bring 300 ml of cow's milk to a boil and cool slightly. Add 1 tbsp to warm milk. spoon of goat fat and honey. Drink the warm mixture in large sips 3-4 times a day throughout the entire period of illness and for several days after. This recipe not only heals bronchitis, but also perfectly restores strength undermined by the disease.

No less useful is goat's milk with honey, as well as a gruel of onions minced through a meat grinder with honey in a 1:1 ratio. This remedy is taken after meals, 1 tbsp. spoon 3 times a day during illness and during the cold season for prevention.

But, perhaps, the most pleasant remedy for bronchitis. Any child will surely love it. This is medicinal chocolate oil. To prepare it you need to take 100 g of butter and chocolate, 3-4 tbsp. spoons of pork fat and 3 teaspoons of cocoa powder. Melt the butter and fat over low heat and add chopped chocolate and cocoa to the resulting mass. Sandwiches with this oil are eaten 3-4 times a day. This healing “dessert” can be washed down with warm milk and a pinch of baking soda.

There is an opinion among the population that bronchitis is a cold. Recently, scientists categorically disagree with this. Cold air itself does not cause illness. If this were so, then the peoples of Chukotka and the Far North should all suffer from colds.

According to statistics, the percentage of bronchitis diseases in autumn and spring is approximately the same in Australia, Finland, and Great Britain. Most likely, this is due to the fact that the human pulmonary system, in particular the bronchi, does not tolerate sharp fluctuations in temperature and air humidity.

Bronchitis is an inflammatory disease of the bronchial mucosa.

The bronchial system is a branched network of alveolar processes (bronchioles, alveoli), through which air is delivered to the pulmonary system, and from there oxygen enters the blood.

As the inflammatory process develops, mucus accumulates in the bronchi, making it difficult to deliver air to the lungs.

What causes bronchitis?

The main cause of bronchitis is a virus or microbe. Therefore, the peak of the disease occurs in the autumn and spring.

In addition, the occurrence of the disease contributes to:

infectious foci in the body;
allergic factor (prolonged contact with various allergens: dust, tobacco smoke, fumes);
low body resistance to disease;
chronic pathologies of the pulmonary system;
tuberculosis;
bacteria (staphylococci, streptococci);
hypothermia of the body.

In most cases, bronchitis has a mixed form. Therefore, treatment must be comprehensive until complete recovery.

What is bronchitis?

There is primary bronchitis. It develops as an independent disease. No pathology from other organs is observed. Secondary bronchitis is considered by the doctor as a complication against the background of the underlying disease (acute respiratory infections, pneumonia, ENT diseases).

According to the flow there are:

, which occurs against the background of infectious, viral diseases and with proper therapy is completely cured in 1 month.
, which appears if acute bronchi are treated incorrectly or insufficiently. It is protracted and leads to complications.

Depending on the cause, the disease is classified as follows:

Type of bronchitis	Short description
Allergic	It develops when an allergen enters the bronchial system. According to the classification, it falls under one of the forms of chronic bronchitis. Often the onset of the disease occurs in childhood, when a poorly developed immune system cannot resist the attack of pathogenic microbes and dietary errors. A reaction to various components of food and the environment begins
Tuberculous	Develops as a complication of the tuberculosis process in the body or when Koch's bacillus enters the respiratory system by airborne droplets
Viral	Diagnosed against the background of viral infections. The likelihood of getting sick increases sharply when you are in crowded places (especially during a flu epidemic)
Toxic (professional)	Occurs with constant inhalation of irritating substances. The risk group includes workers in industries such as metallurgy, chemical, mining, food, and woodworking industries. Constant exposure of dust to the surface of the bronchi leads to the blocking of bronchioles. Which, in turn, contributes to the active production of mucus, making it difficult to remove from the bronchi. In its advanced form, this bronchitis is called “terry”. In this case, in addition to cough, symptoms such as abdominal spasms, chest pain, itching are added
Bacterial	It is provoked by the presence of an infectious focus in the patient’s body (tonsillitis). This type of bronchitis often manifests itself as a complication of a viral disease. A weakened body is not able to cope with pathogenic bacteria, which begin to multiply rapidly. Most often, damage occurs by streptococci of various types, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, staphylococci
Fungal	Diagnosed extremely rarely. The disease is caused by fungi that enter the bronchi with air or from a painful focus in the body. People with low immunity who have undergone a long course of antibiotics are susceptible to this disease.

As a separate species, it exists. Occurs in a mixed form. The cause of the disease is viruses, bacteria, unfavorable environmental factors (tobacco smoke, industrial emissions into the atmosphere), and constant inhalation of polluted air in the workplace. At risk are workers at chemical plants, hot shops, miners, and allergy sufferers.

Let's take a closer look at each variety.

Allergic

It is one of the manifestations of allergies. Based on its symptoms, the disease is often confused with bronchial asthma. Only a doctor can make a final diagnosis. The disease manifests itself as follows:

dry cough, mainly in the second half of the night;
there is a relationship between the occurrence of the disease and contact with the suspected allergen (dust, animal hair, tobacco smoke, plant pollen);
sneezing, watery eyes, and nasal discharge may occur;
shortness of breath, difficulty breathing;
wheezing sounds are heard in the lungs, which can be heard without a phonendoscope.

The condition of other organs is unchanged, blood and urine tests are within normal limits.

Tuberculous

It is detected by the presence of Koch's bacillus in the body. In most cases, it occurs against the background of pulmonary tuberculosis.

Has typical symptoms:

“barking” cough that gets worse when lying down;
shortness of breath when walking and at rest;
burning sensation, painful sensations behind the sternum and between the shoulder blades;
viscous, difficult to clear sputum, often mixed with blood;
general malaise, weakness, fatigue;
no increase in body temperature is observed.

Most symptoms of the disease are similar to ordinary bronchitis and bronchial asthma. Incorrect diagnosis can lead to dangerous complications.

Viral

This type of bronchitis occurs as a result of the virus entering the upper respiratory tract. Having established itself on the mucous membrane, it begins to multiply vigorously, enters the bronchi, and causes an inflammatory process. To become infected, it is enough to talk to a sick person. The virus is transmitted through the air with saliva particles.

Recognized by the following characteristics:

sudden increase in body temperature, often above 38 °C;
muscle pain, headaches;
discomfort in the chest;
a dry, strong cough, which after a few days is replaced by a wet cough with difficult to expectorate yellowish sputum;
general weakness;
shortness of breath when walking;
breathing is difficult; when listening to the lungs, whistling and wheezing are noted.

Depending on the strain of the virus and the state of the immune system, the disease can occur in mild, moderate, or severe form.

Toxic-chemical

This type of bronchitis is also called “professional”. The cause of the disease is dust particles and chemical compounds in the air in plants, enterprises, and factories. Occupational bronchitis has three stages of development:

1st stage:

Shortness of breath appears only after physical activity.
The cough is dry, rare, with a small amount of sputum.
Sometimes dry wheezing is heard.
General condition is satisfactory.

2nd stage:

Frequent, paroxysmal dry cough.
Shortness of breath even after light exertion.
Sputum is difficult to clear, and during exacerbation it is purulent in nature.
A chest x-ray shows changes in the pattern of the bronchial tree.
Periodic seasonal exacerbations.

3rd stage:

A wet cough with the discharge of large amounts of sputum occurs at any time of the day.
Shortness of breath remains even at rest.
Asthmatic syndrome is observed.
X-ray shows changes in the lungs.
Disturbances in the functioning of the heart and lungs are recorded.
The patient feels constant weakness, fatigue, and a significant decrease in performance.
Throughout the year, there are repeated exacerbations of the disease with a severe course.

The constant penetration of dust particles into the bronchi is the main catalyst for toxic-chemical bronchitis.

Bacterial

Often the cause of bacterial bronchitis is a history of chronic tonsillitis.

Signs of bronchitis:

weakness, aches throughout the body;
nausea;
headache;
low-grade fever (not always);
frequent cough, especially at night;
Difficult to separate greenish sputum with an unpleasant odor.

The condition of other organs and systems remains unchanged.

Fungal

Main symptoms of the disease:

a sharp increase in temperature to high numbers;
pain behind the sternum of a stabbing nature;
long-lasting dry cough, gradually turning into a wet cough;
sputum is difficult to clear, purulent in nature;
malaise, constant feeling of fatigue.

Fungal bronchitis is more common in patients with AIDS.

Obstructive

A disease in which there is a violation of pulmonary ventilation, obstruction of the respiratory tract. In the development of obstructive bronchitis, acute and chronic forms of the disease are distinguished. The acute form most often occurs in young children. Chronic is diagnosed in the adult population.

Signs of acute bronchitis:

Headache, weakness.
Dyspnea. When a child inhales, the muscles of the neck, upper shoulder girdle, and abdomen are involved. During breathing, the wings of the nose inflate.
The wheezing is dry, whistling, and can be easily audible without a phonendoscope.
The cough is dry, worsening at night.
Body temperature is slightly elevated - 37…37.5 °C.

The cause of acute bronchitis can be a common cold. Bronchitis often occurs with signs of intoxication (nausea, diarrhea, fever). In this case, the child must exclude the possibility of infectious diseases.

Signs of chronic bronchitis:

general condition is satisfactory;
wet cough, worse in the morning;
sputum is mucous, purulent in nature, separated with difficulty, in small portions;
wheezing wheezing, audible at a distance;
shortness of breath - its severity varies widely and depends on the severity of the disease.

In the chronic form of bronchitis, there are three degrees of respiratory failure, which are determined using spirometry. Treatment of chronic bronchitis in adults can take several months.

Diagnostics

If you feel unwell, you cannot bear the disease on your feet and hope that it will go away on its own.

When should you see a doctor?

At the first signs of the disease, you must immediately see a specialist. Symptoms such as chills, shortness of breath, hacking cough, severe weakness should alert you and be a serious incentive to visit a doctor.

If your child is sick, you need to call a doctor at home. A trip to the clinic or a queue for an appointment can become an impetus for a child’s condition to worsen.

Which doctor should I contact if I have bronchitis?

The sick child will be treated by a pediatrician. An adult must make an appointment with a local physician for an initial appointment. In the future, the patient may be referred for consultation to a pulmonologist. It all depends on the effectiveness of the treatment and the general condition of the patient.

To make an accurate diagnosis, monitor the treatment process, and correctly prescribe therapy, a complex of diagnostic and treatment studies are carried out.

X-ray of the lungs helps identify possible diseases and changes in the lungs.
Bronchoscopy makes it possible to examine the bronchi from the inside and take a sputum sample for examination.
Spirometry is needed to determine the severity of bronchitis and the presence of respiratory failure.
A general blood test, urine test, and biochemical blood test make it possible to monitor the condition of the body and adjust treatment.
Sputum analysis allows you to exclude diseases such as oncology, tuberculosis, pneumonia.
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is prescribed to exclude diseases of the cardiovascular system and monitor heart function during treatment.

The doctor selects medications individually, depending on age, course of the disease, and the presence of contraindications.

Treatment of children

In childhood, bronchitis is more severe than in adults. This is due to weak muscles and an underdeveloped immune system. The baby simply does not know how to properly expectorate mucus, and this significantly reduces the ability of the bronchi to clear its accumulation.

Prescribing antibiotics to a child is indicated only as a last resort.

Let your baby drink more (tea, fruit drink, juice). Drinking plenty of fluids speeds up the removal of mucus.

If the temperature rises, give antipyretic syrup.

The room must be wet cleaned and ventilated daily. Remember that the disease loves dryness and heat.

A small patient should not be given expectorants or inhalations during an exacerbation. The baby, unable to cough up mucus, will simply choke on it.

Treatment of adolescents

In adolescence, a child does not always pay attention to the first signs of illness. He leads an ordinary life, hoping that everything will go away on its own. Therefore, adults should be attentive to changes in the child's behavior. At the first signs of the disease, you must insist on consulting a pediatrician.

Medications for adolescents are prescribed according to age.

Control over treatment rests entirely with adults. Usually, at the first signs of improvement, teenagers try to avoid taking medical procedures. Adults are responsible for ensuring that the therapeutic course is completed in full, until complete recovery.

Treatment of pregnant women

Bronchitis during pregnancy poses a threat to the woman and the fetus developing in the womb. Respiratory failure affects the well-being of the expectant mother, creates a threat of oxygen hypoxia, and stops the development of the child.

The prescription of antibiotics, potent, hormonal drugs to the expectant mother is carried out only in extreme cases. Most medications are contraindicated for pregnant women, so the doctor prescribes herbal infusions (breastfeeding), herbal cough syrup (Sinupret, “”), inhalations, and drinking plenty of fluids.

As a last resort, you can prescribe (Amoxicillin).

Treatment of the elderly

Bronchitis for older people is a serious challenge. The condition of organs and systems is far from ideal. There is a senile “bouquet of diseases”. In the process of treating bronchitis, it is necessary to stop exacerbations of existing ailments.

Therefore, when prescribing therapy for older people, the doctor must carefully monitor the compatibility of the prescribed medications.

Treatment methods

At the first signs of illness, consult a physician. After the examination, you will be given directions for examination, consultation with specialists, and treatment will be prescribed, which includes medications, inhalations, massage, diet, physiotherapy, and herbal medicine.

Medications

For a quick recovery, comprehensive treatment is necessary:

antibiotics (amoxiclav, cefotaxime, azithromycin);
anti-inflammatory drugs (indomethacin, dexamethasone);
mucolytics (bromhexine, ACC, ambroxol);
expectorants (ascoril, acetylcysteine);
bronchodilators (theotard, salbutamol, aminophylline);
antiviral (rimantadine, cycloferon);
antitussives (berodual, broncholitin);
vitamin complexes.

When taking each medicine, you must adhere to the correct dosage and method of application.

Folk remedies

There are many recipes, choose according to your tastes. Don't forget about contraindications.

Complications

With a long course of the disease, serious changes occur in the lungs and bronchi. The mucous membrane changes its structure as a result of constant inflammation. This leads to complications. The reasons are usually:

incorrect diagnosis;
self-medication, uncontrolled use of antibiotics;
incomplete course of therapy;
age - in old people and infants the disease is more severe;
a history of other chronic diseases;
low immunity;
smoking and alcohol abuse.

Let's look at the most common consequences.

Asthma

Most often it manifests itself as allergic (with long-term use of antibiotics), bronchial (with deep damage to the mucous membrane of the bronchial tree). The main symptoms are shortness of breath and asthma attacks, which can only be relieved with special medications. If you have asthma, you should use medications with caution and, in case of contraindications, you should replace them with analogues.

Emphysema

May occur in patients with chronic bronchitis. With this disease, gas exchange is disrupted. Air begins to accumulate in the lungs, the appearance of numerous air sacs leads to swelling of the lung tissue. The patient develops shortness of breath, cyanosis of the skin, and a feeling of lack of air. With this complication, urgent hospitalization is indicated.

Bronchopneumonia

Inflammation of the lungs occurs against the background of bronchitis. The danger lies in the inability to control the inflammatory process. With low immunity and a weakened body, death is possible.

In children, complications of bronchitis lead to lifelong medication use, the need to undergo rehabilitation in a sanatorium several times a year, and limitation of physical activity.

Prevention

To prevent relapses of the disease and possible complications, a number of preventive measures are indicated aimed at strengthening the body and the ability to withstand pathogenic factors.

Preventive measures include:

giving up bad habits (smoking, alcohol);
strengthening the body’s immune system: systematic hardening, playing sports, drinking herbal infusions, oxygen cocktails, frequent walks in the fresh air, in the forest, in the park;
timely treatment of diseases;
diet. Try to eat food systematically, at the same time. Avoid smoked meats, fatty, spicy, fried foods that are heavy on the stomach. Try to introduce fresh vegetables, fruits, fish, and seafood into your diet;
constant air humidity in your home. Avoid dry air (especially in winter). Do wet cleaning in the rooms every day, control the humidity using a barometer;
inadmissibility of hypothermia. Dress appropriately for the weather.

During the season of mass outbreaks of colds, try not to appear in crowded places.

Remember that disease is easier to prevent than to cure.

For example, ARVI, influenza, although it may also have a different origin. Bronchitis can occur due to exposure to aggressive physical or chemical factors, for example, dust, gasoline vapors, acetone, and paints. The disease develops under the influence of atypical factors and may be of an allergic nature.

But predominantly bronchitis is of an infectious nature - bacterial or viral, and is almost always accompanied by diffuse inflammation of the bronchial mucosa, which leads to a characteristic painful symptom - cough, which has a different character, greatly exhausts the sick person, especially since its duration is quite long, in on average, 3 weeks.

In this article we want to talk about the features of the occurrence, course and treatment of bronchitis in adults. This topic becomes very relevant not only during ARVI epidemics, but even in the summer, when people do not expect the appearance of colds that are complicated by bronchitis. But, alas, no one is immune from bronchitis at any time of the year.

Reasons for the development of bronchitis

As mentioned above, the most common and common cause of acute or chronic bronchitis among adults is viral, bacterial or atypical flora.

The main bacterial pathogens that cause the development of the inflammatory process in the bronchial tree today are different strains of staphylococci, pneumococci or streptococci.

Bronchitis can be of a viral nature; it occurs against the background of damage to the bronchial mucosa by influenza viruses, parainfluenza, adenoviruses, cytomegaloviruses, respiratory syncytial viruses, enteroviruses, etc.

Atypical factors leading to bronchitis include quite rare bacterial pathogens, such as chlamydia and mycoplasma. They are called atypical because their biological characteristics lead researchers to place them in an intermediate class between viruses and bacteria.

Very often, the cause of bronchitis is mixed pathogenic flora from the very beginning of the disease. But most often, against the background of damage to the bronchial mucosa, one type of infectious agent is associated with another type. For example, viral bronchitis gives way to bacterial bronchitis.

Viral infections almost always open the gates for bacterial infection and create the most favorable conditions for the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms. This is why, at the height of viral epidemics in winter, bronchitis is so often reported in the adult population.

>>We recommend: if you are interested in effective methods of getting rid of chronic runny nose, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, bronchitis and persistent colds, then be sure to check out this site page after reading this article. The information is based on the author’s personal experience and has helped many people, we hope it will help you too. Now let's return to the article.<<

Factors contributing to the occurrence of bronchitis among adults

The first and most important condition that is necessary for the occurrence of bronchitis is, of course, a weakening of the immune system in an adult, which, in its normal state, ensures the body’s resistance and immunity to various external environmental agents - viral and bacterial pathogenic flora.

If necessary, anti-inflammatory therapy and antibacterial agents are prescribed. They become necessary if there is a threat of a complication, as indicated, for example, by a high temperature for more than 3 days, or an increase in it a few days after the onset of the disease, even during treatment.

At the first symptoms of bronchitis, there is no point in turning to antibiotics, since most often (in the case of an acute form) the onset of the disease is caused by exposure to a viral infection, the effect of which is not covered by antibiotics. Treatment of chronic bronchitis requires antibiotic therapy if an obstructive form occurs.

The choice of antibiotic is carried out precisely in accordance with the pathogen, which is the real cause of inflammation in the lungs. With properly selected antibacterial treatment, the symptoms of bronchitis begin to subside within 4-5 days from the start of therapy.

For antibiotic treatment, the drugs of choice are:

penicillins (Amoxicillin, Flemoxin, Augmentin),
cephalosporins (Cefixime, Cefazolin, Claforan, Cefuroxime, Cefaclor),
macrolides (Vilpramen, Clarithromycin, Azithromycin, Erythromycin, Macropen, Rovamycin),
fluoroquinolones (Levofloxacin, Sparfloxacin, Moxifloxacin), etc.

You can use a drug with antibiotics for topical use - Bioparox. Antibiotics can be administered orally, parenterally, or by inhalation, such as a nebulizer.

For viral bronchitis, it is necessary to use antiviral drugs for treatment, for example, leukocyte Interferon, Remantadine for influenza, RNase and Deoxyribonuclease for adenovirus infection, Genferon, Viferon, Kipferon, etc. The duration of antiviral therapy is at least 10 days.

In addition to these medications, symptomatic and auxiliary treatment is used, which includes the use of antihistamines, immunotropic drugs, antipyretics, vitamins, cardiac medications, etc.

As an addition to the main scheme, you can use folk methods - herbal preparations, infusions, decoctions. The use of cups and mustard plasters in the treatment of bronchitis practically does not give any tangible results.

A disease of the respiratory tract, which is characterized by acute inflammation of the bronchi, is bronchitis; complications can arise due to various reasons:

improper treatment;
untimely assistance;
changes in the structure of bronchial tissues.

Some people wonder: can you die from bronchitis? The fact is that this disease itself is not so dangerous, but the consequences of improper treatment can be fatal. Due to the constant action of the chronic type, dangerous diseases arise. Complications of acute bronchitis also pose a danger to the body. They primarily affect the trachea and lungs. Remember that not only the respiratory tract organs can be damaged, but also the body as a whole.

The sooner a doctor diagnoses bronchitis, the more likely it is to avoid complications. After diagnosis, the doctor determines the stage of the disease and begins treatment.

If you do not seek help in time, complications arise, their appearance is influenced by the following points:

Incorrect diagnosis and self-medication with inappropriate medications.
An untreated disease.
Failure to comply with medical recommendations and prescriptions.
There are hereditary and chronic respiratory diseases.
Some diseases are chronic.
The disease is severe in infants and the elderly.
Polluted environment.
Smoking.

In order for bronchitis to pass without consequences and not develop into pneumonia, it is necessary to immediately consult a doctor when the first symptoms occur. It is important to immediately begin to observe bed rest, and therefore it is recommended to call a doctor at home.

Complications of bronchitis can take different forms.

The most common:

pneumonia;
bronchopneumonia;
transition to a purulent form;
emphysema;
asthmatic syndrome;
asthma of bronchial type.

Such consequences of bronchitis cause the following symptoms:

High temperature and chills.
Severe wet cough. When listening, wheezing is heard.
Dyspnea.
Pain in the chest area when inhaling and exhaling.

With bronchitis with complications, severe intoxication of the body is observed.

The most common and dangerous complication of bronchitis is pneumonia. X-ray shows strong changes in the lung tissue. It is important to cope with the disease in time to prevent the disease from becoming chronic.

If bronchitis is not treated, it becomes acute, which is very dangerous for the child. Severe consequences can be caused by abnormalities such as immunodeficiency, anomalies and pathologies in the respiratory tract system.

Chronic bronchitis and the complications caused by it are difficult and can make the baby dependent on taking medications, the need for procedures and treatment in sanatoriums. Therefore, as soon as you suspect that your child has bronchitis, immediately contact your pediatrician.

A child should not be allowed to develop pneumonia. Little ones suffer from pneumonia much more severely. Sputum penetrating into the lungs can seriously damage the baby’s health.

Acute bronchitis often provokes in a child the development of ailments such as laryngitis, severe rhinitis or tracheitis. Complications of acute bronchitis are dangerous due to the development of bronchiolitis.

All this is accompanied by the following processes:

respiratory failure;
the hemodynamic process is disrupted;
the mucous membrane swells;
emphysema is observed;
hypoxemia appears.

With bronchitis in adults, a complication occurs in the form of a focal form of pneumonia.

The main inflammation concerns the walls of the bronchioles, resulting in the following external symptoms:

High temperature and chills.
Weakness and fatigue from exerting the slightest effort.
Dry cough.
Moist cough.
Severe headaches and dizziness.
Shortness of breath and chest pain.

The development of complications of bronchitis in adults is rarely accompanied by bronchopneumonia. As a rule, this happens if the patient already has diseases associated with immunodeficiency, some organ pathologies or cancer.

Asthmatic syndrome can become a serious and dangerous consequence of bronchitis if you do not resort to treatment in time. It often manifests itself if the disease was initially viral or allergic in nature. This syndrome is characterized by difficulty breathing, which develops into a severe attack of suffocation. To get rid of it, immediate help is needed. It is necessary to treat this problem because as a result of a long attack of suffocation you can die. Otherwise, in the absence of proper treatment, the syndrome turns into bronchial asthma.

Complications from bronchitis can lead to a life-threatening disease such as bronchial asthma.

It is accompanied by unpleasant and even painful symptoms:

At night, asthma attacks are more common than during the day.
A lot of phlegm is produced, which makes breathing difficult.
Severe attacks accompanied by heart problems.

Many patients successfully cured asthma if they used complex therapy at the initial stage. Yes, the treatment takes a long time, approximately 5 months, but there is a high chance of success.

Most often, bronchitis has complications in the form of pneumonia. Dry and wet cough, fever, rhinitis, pain in the chest area - if you notice these symptoms, you should be alarmed and urgently seek medical help.

It is quite possible to die from pneumonia if you do not seek help in time! Qualified treatment is only possible in a hospital setting, especially if the body is already weakened by bronchitis.

What happens if you ignore chronic bronchitis? A disease develops - pulmonary emphysema. As the alveoli lose their elasticity, air pressure in this area increases. As a result, the alveoli become denser and breathing worsens. The lung tissue swells and can no longer provide the required level of contraction and expansion during breathing. As a result, there is a disruption of the gas exchange process in the lung area. Treatment of this disease requires hospitalization.