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Alternative names Return to top
Bronchitis - acuteDefinition Return to top
An inflammation of the main air passages to the lungs (the bronchi).Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
Acute bronchitis is generally caused by viral respiratory infections and typically appears just as the symptoms of the initial infection are waning.
These viral infections may be caused by any number of respiratory viruses including the rhinoviruses which cause the common cold. These viruses produce bronchial inflammation which sets the stage for bronchitis and, in some cases, a secondary bacterial infection.
Early symptoms may include a tickle deep in the throat just above the sternal notch which progresses into an irritating dry cough.
As the infection progresses, the cough may become productive with thick yellow sputum (purulent sputum) which is very rarely blood streaked. Associated symptoms may include fever, malaise, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
When affected, infants generally develop other respiratory complications, such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia, while older children and adolescents develop typical adult symptoms of bronchitis.
Risk factors for bronchitis include recent illnesses that have lowered resistance to infection, a preceding viral respiratory infection, smoking, or chronic lung problems. Acute bronchitis is one of the most common conditions seen in clinical practice..
Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
A physical examination confirms the symptoms and signs of bronchitis, and is most important to help rule out the presence of pneumonia.Treatment Return to top
The goal of treatment is to relieve the symptoms with medications and supportive measures. Multiple studies have shown antibiotics do not benefit most patients with acute bronchitis. In otherwise healthy people, antibiotics should rarely be prescribed..
Medications which open constricted air passages in the lungs (bronchodilators), such as albuterol, may be prescribed particularly for patients with wheezing.
Decongestants (such as pseudoephedrine) may also help alleviate the symptoms of bronchitis. Medications that liquefy mucus secretions (mucolytics, like guaifenesin) may also be prescribed.
Supportive treatments include rest, increased humidity (using a cool mist humidifier) to soothe air passages, and increased fluid intake to maintain hydration and to thin mucous lung secretions.
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
Symptoms usually abate within 7 to 10 days in the absence of prior chronicpulmonary disease. Complete resolution of cough commonly takes longer in some patients.Complications Return to top
Pneumonia is a possible complication.
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call your health care provider if symptoms suggestive of bronchitis occur.Prevention Return to top
Good handwashing is one of the best ways to avoid exposure to viruses and other respiratory infections.
Since influenza viruses have been shown to be a significant cause of bronchitis, yearly ful vaccination may also help prevent acute bronchitis.
Minimize exposure to cold, damp environments which, combined with air pollution or tobacco smoke, may make people more susceptible to bronchitis.
Update Date: 9/14/2003 Updated by: Thomas A. Owens, M.D., Departments of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |