BRONCHITIS

A minor headache or body ache could be cold symptoms in people with acute bronchitis. While these symptoms often go away in about a week, you could end up with a persistent cough that lasts for many weeks.

A three-month or longer productive cough that recurs for at least two years in a row is considered to be chronic bronchitis. The most common symptoms of Bronchitis include:

• Cough: The hallmark symptom of bronchitis is a persistent cough that may produce mucus or phlegm. The cough may worsen in the morning or at night.

• Chest Discomfort: Individuals with bronchitis often experience chest discomfort or a feeling of tightness and heaviness in the chest area.
• Shortness of Breath: Breathing difficulties, especially during physical activity or exertion, are common symptoms of bronchitis.

• Fatigue: Fatigue and general malaise are frequently reported by individuals with bronchitis, as the body works to fight off the infection and manage inflammation.

• Sore Throat: In some cases, bronchitis can cause a sore throat, along with other respiratory symptoms.

It's important to note that individuals with chronic bronchitis may be at a higher risk of developing recurrent respiratory infections and experiencing exacerbations of their symptoms.

• Smoking: Cigarette smoking is a significant risk factor for both acute and chronic bronchitis. The harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke can damage the airways and impair the lungs' natural defense mechanisms.

• Weakened Immune System: Individuals with a weakened immune system, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, have an increased susceptibility to infections, including bronchitis.

• Age: Young children and older adults are more susceptible to respiratory infections, including bronchitis.

• Occupational Exposure: Certain occupations that involve exposure to dust, chemicals, or fumes can increase the risk of developing bronchitis. Examples include coal miners, construction workers, and individuals working in agriculture or manufacturing.

• Air Pollution: Living in areas with high levels of air pollution can irritate the airways and increase the risk of bronchitis.
  
  

Most of the time, the same viruses that cause the common cold or flu also cause bronchitis. Millions of microscopic droplets that are released from the lips and nose during a cough or sneeze carry the virus. Other common causes include:

• Bacterial Infections: Although less common, bacterial infections can also cause bronchitis. Bacterial bronchitis may develop as a complication of a respiratory infection or when the immune system is weakened.

• Environmental Factors: Prolonged exposure to irritants such as tobacco smoke, air pollution, dust, fumes, and chemicals can contribute to chronic bronchitis.

• Pre-existing Conditions: Individuals with underlying respiratory conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are at a higher risk of developing bronchitis.

Untreated Bronchitis

If you're experiencing symptoms of bronchitis, seeking timely and appropriate treatment is crucial for relieving symptoms and promoting healing. The Chattanooga Sleep Center is here to provide comprehensive care and effective treatment options to help you find relief from bronchitis and improve your respiratory health. If left untreated, Bronchitis could lead to:

• Recurrent Infections: Untreated bronchitis weakens the respiratory system, making individuals more susceptible to respiratory infections. These recurrent infections can further damage the airways and lead to complications such as pneumonia.

• Impact on Daily Life: Untreated bronchitis can significantly impact an individual's daily life by causing ongoing discomfort, fatigue, and limitations in physical activities due to respiratory symptoms.

• Potential Progression to COPD: Chronic bronchitis, when left untreated, can progress to COPD over time. This transition may result in more severe respiratory symptoms and a higher risk of complications associated with COPD.
  

Bronchitis Treatment Options at the Chattanooga Sleep Center

At the Chattanooga Sleep Center, our team of respiratory specialists is dedicated to providing personalized care for individuals with bronchitis. If you're struggling with persistent coughing, chest congestion, or difficulty breathing, we encourage you to schedule an appointment at our state-of-the-art facility.

Our comprehensive approach to treatment combines medical expertise, advanced technologies, and a patient-centered environment to ensure you receive the highest quality care. Our treatment options include:

• Medication
• Bronchodilators
• Expectorants
• Cough Suppressants
• Breathing Techniques
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation
• Lifestyle Modifications