Tips to manage Bronchitis effectively Bronchitis is a progressive medical condition that can be managed and controlled but not cured. Bronchitis as a medical condition is described as a condition of the lungs wherein the lining of the bronchial tubes gets inflamed or infected. Patients suffering from bronchitis have impaired breathing function due to which is there is reduced air and oxygen going into their lungs. Due to Bronchitis symptoms like persistent cough, there is also heavy mucus or phlegm blocking their airways making breathing difficult. Diagnosing Bronchitis Diagnosing bronchitis is not very difficult due to its evident set of symptoms. However for conclusive diagnosis, doctors carry out tests as and when the need arises. In case of acute bronchitis, just a description of symptoms along with a physical examination is enough for diagnosis. In case of acute bronchitis there is a distinct rattling sound found in the lungs' upper airways that is checked for by the doctor using a stethoscope to confirm diagnosis. In cases of chronic bronchitis which need more conclusive diagnosis, the doctor is likely to recommend an X-ray of the chest to find out the extent of lung damage caused by the infection. There is certain pulmonary function tests also carried out to assess the performance of the lungs. The oxygen level in the blood is also checked using a small sensor clipped on to the finger of the patient. Treatment of Bronchitis Acute Bronchitis Acute bronchitis arising from a simple cold or flu is typically easier to manage and treat. The patient needs to get ample rest, keep up the fluid intake and avoid smoking or inhaling environmental pollutants that can trigger an attack. In severe cases of acute bronchitis doctors recommend bronchodilators to loosen up the mucus built up in the chest and help the body throw out the same by way of a productive cough. In healthy people suffering from bronchitis, antibiotics are not necessary in most cases. If the cause behind the cold is a virus, it usually settles on its own without any antibiotics. Persistent cough is a symptom of acute bronchitis and is body’s way of throwing out the mucus from the lungs. However, if the cough is persistent leading to sleeplessness, or painful then the doctor may prescribe a cough suppressant. Chronic Bronchitis Chronic Bronchitis on the other hand is a lot more serious and troublesome for the patients’ as compared to acute bronchitis. In case of chronic bronchitis, lungs become more vulnerable to infections. A yearly flu shot along with a vaccination against pneumonia, PPSV23 helps in protection against common type of pneumonia caused by bacteria until the age of 65. Medical advice regarding the same should be sought from the treating doctor. Bronchodilators are found helpful in opening up the airways helping the patients to breathe better.
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