Bronchitis

Bronchitis is a lung condition in which the branches of the windpipe are inflamed. These branches are the bronchi and run through the lungs. The inside of the bronchi is lined with a mucous membrane. In bronchitis this mucous membrane is inflamed.

Bronchitis can be either acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis usually develops after a cold or flu. In chronic bronchitis the bronchi are inflamed for a longer period. Chronic bronchitis together with emphysema falls under COPD. COPD is an abbreviation for chronic lung diseases.

When the lining of the lungs becomes irritated, this can lead to inflammation at that site. To protect the mucous membrane, extra mucus is produced. This mucus triggers a cough. Coughing is important to remove the virus or bacterium from the bronchi.

What causes bronchitis?

There are various causes of bronchitis:

• Viral infection. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a viral infection, for example by the flu virus.
• Bacterial infection. A bacterial infection occurs much less often. An example is infection by a pneumococcal bacterium.
• Inhaling irritants. These can be toxic fumes, but also cigarette smoke.
• Smoking. This often leads to chronic bronchitis. Passive smoking falls under this as well.

Who is at risk of bronchitis?

Anyone can get bronchitis. However, some groups are at higher risk.

• Older adults (over 65). With age the quality of the mucous membrane is reduced.
• Children (under three years). The quality of the mucous membrane is not yet optimal.
• (Passive) smokers. The mucous membrane in this group is overloaded.
• People with problems or diseases of the immune system. The immune system then protects the mucous membrane less effectively.
• People who work with irritants. These substances damage the mucous membrane too much.

What are the symptoms of bronchitis?

Acute bronchitis resembles the symptoms of a cold. There are differences though.

Symptoms of bronchitis include:

• Cough after a cold or flu.
• Initially a dry cough, later a cough with mucus (colourless, green, yellow or grey).
• Pressure on the chest.
• Wheezing.
• Fever.
• Shortness of breath.
• Pain when coughing.
• Fatigue.

There is no fever with chronic bronchitis. Symptoms are present without a preceding cold or flu.

How is bronchitis treated?

Acute bronchitis is usually not treated. It generally clears up on its own within two weeks. The cough can last longer than two weeks. The mucous membrane remains irritated a little longer without ongoing inflammation. In a bacterial infection, antibiotics can be used.

In chronic bronchitis medications are often given to dilate the bronchi. If the bronchi are badly damaged, extra oxygen can be given. For the treatment of chronic bronchitis, physiotherapy is often advised. This can help to get the bronchi into good or better condition. A physiotherapist who has extra specialisation in the lungs is the respiratory physiotherapist.

What can you do yourself if you have bronchitis?

• Try to rest. Bed rest is not necessary, but heavy exertion slows recovery.
• Drink enough water.
• Eat healthily, mainly extra vegetables and fruit.
• Steam inhalation helps. The warm moist air helps to loosen mucus.
• If there is pain, consider painkillers.
• With chronic bronchitis, keep the lungs in good condition by staying active.

How can you reduce the risk of bronchitis?

Acute bronchitis is best prevented by not catching a cold or flu.

• Wash your hands regularly.
• Eat healthily.
• Ensure fresh air in the home. A virus from someone else can easily linger indoors. By ventilating well you reduce this risk.
• Maintain good physical condition by exercising or playing sports regularly.