Chest Cold — Acute Bronchitis

Overview

Acute bronchitis, also known as chest cold, develops in the advanced stages of a viral respiratory infection or a common cold. Bronchitis refers to the inflammation of the inner lining of an individual’s bronchial tubes, also known as breathing tubes. Bronchial tubes are responsible for delivering air to and from the lungs. Acute bronchitis is the type of disease which appears suddenly and lasts for a relatively shorter period, typically going away within 10 days.

What is Acute Bronchitis?

Acute bronchitis refers to a condition where the lung's air passageways, or the bronchial tubes, swell up and produce thick, discoloured mucus. As a result, the affected individual coughs up mucus, and experiences other symptoms like headaches, sore throat and/or fatigue.

Bronchitis is often confused with a common cold, but they are not essentially the same. The common cold is caused by the impact on different regions of the lungs. Acute bronchitis is also different from chronic bronchitis, with the former having short-term effects and the latter, long-term impact.

Symptoms of Acute bronchitis

Acute bronchitis is typically associated with a cough that persists for a few weeks. While one may experience a dry cough, others may cough up mucus. When the coughing gets too intense, 'wheezing' is common i.e. producing whistling sounds as one breathes. Other symptoms may include dyspnea (shortness of breath), a runny nose and a high, chill-inducing fever. Affected individuals may also feel fatigued easily, experiencing soreness and aches in different parts of the body. Chest congestion and headaches are also common.

Causes of Acute bronchitis

Acute bronchitis is caused by a virus, often following a flu or common cold. However, there could be other sources of the condition in some people, including bacterial infections, caused by Bordetella pertussis, Mycoplasma pneumoniae or Chlamydia pneumoniae. Irritants like the smoke of cigarettes, pollen, dust or other particles may also cause this condition. Even, people with allergies to some of the mentioned irritants may react with a violent cough when placed near them. Pollution, in general, is accountable for several cases of acute bronchitis.

Risk Factors of Acute Bronchitis

People with a history of smoking cigarettes or other substances run the risk of developing acute bronchitis. Patients with asthma are also more at risk of developing the condition. Other than that, people living in highly polluted areas are prone to the risks of catching a persistent cough. Additionally, extremely crowded can serve as hubs for developing allergic reactions. Lastly, wearing perfumes with specific types of allergens can trigger a reaction.

Diagnosis of Acute Bronchitis

A clinical diagnosis of acute bronchitis includes the analysis of symptoms and checking of general health history. They’ll check to detect signs of congestion. Some tests that doctors prescribe to diagnose acute bronchitis include chest X-ray, nasal sample examination, and blood and sputum tests. Finally, if doctors suspect a case of chronic bronchitis, they’ll conduct pulmonary function tests as well.

Treatment of Acute Bronchitis

Acute bronchitis treatment usually helps the infected individual feel better faster. However, the condition will heal even if left untreated. Healthcare professionals may recommend antivirals like Rapivab, Tamiflu, Relenza, etc. if the condition results as an aftermath of a flu. Note that antivirals will not work and can make an individual feel worse if bronchitis is caused by bacteria. In that case, antibiotics may be prescribed.

Doctors may also recommend using bronchodilators which will help unclog the air passages allowing the infected person to breathe better. Cough suppressants like dextromethorphan and benzonatate may also help combat the persistent cough. Note that in case of COPD, additional medication may be prescribed.

Preventive Measures for Acute Bronchitis

There are certain preventative measures one can take to avoid acute bronchitis. For example, staying away from people who are likely to be sick, steering clear of smoke-filled zones, and recognising and maintaining distance from irritants that cause allergic reactions – are the fool proof steps.

Staying in spaces that are home to humidifiers may also help. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and getting enough hours of rest are positive practices to inculcate. Make sure not to shy away from washing hands with soap and water as well as keep sanitisers in handy. Lastly, stay updated on any locally circulating diseases to prevent acute bronchitis.

Myths and Facts Related to Acute Bronchitis

Below are some myths related to acute bronchitis and facts which pronounce them false:

Myth 1: Acute bronchitis is not contagious
Fact: Acute bronchitis can spread from one person to another, through mediums like coughing and sneezing. It can also be spread through contact with contaminated surfaces.

Myth 2: Curing acute bronchitis can be expensive
Fact: Curing bronchitis does not have to be expensive at all. It mainly involves antifungal medicines and a few lifestyle changes. A lot of people get better without treatment.

Myth 3: Acute bronchitis can be cured with antibiotics
Fact: Acute bronchitis can only be cured with antibiotics if it is caused by bacteria. However, if it is caused by a virus, antiviral medications shall help one feel better.

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