Chronic bronchitis causes irritation and inflammation of the airways in the lungs. These airways are known as bronchial tubes. When the airways become irritated and inflamed, phlegm develops in the airways. Over time, this phlegm accumulates in the bronchial tubes and results in difficulty in breathing.
According to the statistics of American Lung Association, nearly 9 million Americans were diagnosed with this condition. This can occur at any age, but mostly affects people over 45 years. This condition mostly affects women. In 2004, 6.3 million women were diagnosed with this condition when compared to 2.8 million men.
Causes of Chronic Bronchitis:
Chronic bronchitis is mainly caused by air pollution, cigarette smoking and second hand smoke. In addition to these, infection and allergies are other factors which cause exacerbation of chronic bronchitis. In fact, patients diagnosed with chronic bronchitis are more prone to develop recurring lung infections.
Symptoms of Chronic Bronchitis:
People suffering from chronic bronchitis may experience the following signs and symptoms:
- Weight gain and Edema (These occur due to the side effects of medicines)
- Frequent throat clearing
- Dyspnea
- Increase in mucus production
- Long-term cough
Cough which accompanies chronic bronchitis is sometimes caused due to dampness, cold weather and things which irritate the lungs like smoke and fumes. Generally, the patient will have a history of smoking as well as repeated lung infections.
Diagnosis for Chronic Bronchitis:
The presence of a productive, persistent cough which lasts for 3 months in a year for the two consecutive years points the physician in the direction of diagnosing chronic bronchitis. Diagnosis is done by taking complete history such as smoking history, occupational and environmental exposure and family history.
Diagnostic tests may include:
- Complete blood count
- Pulmonary function tests
- Chest X-ray
- Arterial blood gases
Treatment for Chronic Bronchitis:
Treatment for chronic bronchitis aims at opening and proper functioning of the airways. This aids in clearing the airways for preventing lung infections and further disability. Treatment procedures include:
- Corticosteroids
- Fluids
- Chest physiotherapy
- Postural drainage
- Bronchodilators
- Antibiotics
- Quitting smoke
