Symptoms and treatment of bronchitis in adults

What is bronchitis

Bronchitis is inflammation and swelling of the bronchi (windpipe, trachea) located between the mouth, nose and lungs.

To be more specific, bronchitis is a condition in which the mucous membrane of the windpipe becomes inflamed.

People with bronchitis have difficulty breathing and providing oxygen to their lungs; in addition, they cannot clear the airways of phlegm and mucus.

Symptoms of chronic bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis leads to various complications much more often than acute bronchitis.

According to statistics, those most susceptible to this pathology are men over 40 years old.

Chronic bronchitis is characterized by periodicity. During remissions the patient's health improves, only a slight cough is possible in the morning with a scant amount of sputum.

During an exacerbation, the symptoms of the chronic form of the disease are as follows:

• painful cough with difficult to separate sputum;
• sweating;

The acute period of the chronic course of the disease can be either without fever or with mild fever.

Obstruction (narrowing) of the bronchial tract gradually develops, which leads to

Signs of toxic bronchitis

Toxic bronchitis occurs when the bronchial tree is exposed to toxic substances. Symptoms of toxic bronchitis are as follows:

• painful cough;
• paroxysmal difficulty breathing;
• stabbing pain in the chest;
• headaches;
• appetite is impaired;
• Nausea to the point of vomiting appears.

Signs of allergic bronchitis

Allergic bronchitis occurs as a result of repeated interaction with an allergen contained in the inhaled air. Such substances settle on the mucous membrane of the bronchial tract and cause a specific immune reaction.

Distinctive feature This form of the disease is a paroxysmal cough, especially at night, runny nose, sneezing.

Body temperature usually remains the same or increases slightly. The first signs of inflammation caused by an allergen are a reason to contact an allergist to conduct appropriate immunological tests.

The general condition of a person with allergic bronchitis practically does not worsen; it occurs in a milder form than all others.

Diagnostics

As soon as the first signs of bronchitis appear, even without fever (persistent cough), you need to consult a doctor.

The diagnosis is made on the basis of relevant complaints, examination of the patient and examination data. The main examination methods are:

X-ray examination of the lungs.

X-ray data allows you to confirm the diagnosis, exclude cancer, or cancer. X-rays are taken in frontal and lateral projections.

Bronchoscopic examination of the lungs.

This method is prescribed if there is a need to assess the patency of the bronchial tract and examine the mucous membrane. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. The bronchoscope is inserted through the patient's nose or mouth. The procedure also allows for the collection of bronchial tissue for histological examination.

Spirometry.

The method allows you to assess the functional capacity of the lungs. Spirometry is carried out when there is a need to assess the degree of obstruction (narrowing) of the bronchi, to exclude or exclude the presence.

Laboratory diagnostic methods:

• general blood test. With bronchitis, signs of non-specific inflammation are revealed:
  • increased number of leukocytes with a shift in the leukocyte formula to the left and (ESR);
• sputum analysis. The patient collects sputum into a special sterile tube. After this, a sputum culture is performed in the laboratory to identify the type of pathogen. This method also allows you to determine the sensitivity of microflora to antibiotics, which is important for selecting the most effective therapy;
• serological test blood serum. This analysis is prescribed if it is necessary to determine antibodies to viruses, mycoplasmas, and allergens.

How to treat bronchitis

Lifestyle

First of all it is necessary exclude the influence of factors: smoking, staying in cold rooms. In the first days, if there is an elevated temperature, a pastel regime is prescribed.

Nutrition

In case of acute and exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, easily digestible dairy and plant products should predominate in the diet. The diet should have enough protein and vitamins.

Drinking plenty of fluids is necessary, especially if the patient has a fever. In such cases, the volume of liquid drunk should be at least 3 liters per day. Preference should be given to alkaline fruit drinks, warm mineral water without gas.

A good effect is achieved by combining Borjomi with hot milk in a 1:1 ratio.

Medicines for bronchitis

The following groups of medications are used from medications:

Antipyretic drugs

These medications are used if the patient has a high temperature (more than 38C) and the general condition suffers. In addition to the antipyretic effect, drugs in this group have an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect. These medications include:

• Ibuprofen;
• Paracetamol;
• Nimesulide.

Mucolytics and bronchodilators

These drugs are prescribed if the patient cannot cough up sputum. When sputum accumulates in the bronchi, stagnation occurs, the infectious process spreads to the lung tissue, as a result of which pneumonia can develop.

Mucolytics – promote the liquefaction of sputum, and as a result its discharge:

• Mukaltin, Althea Syrup ();
• preparations based on thermopsis (Codelac Broncho and Thermopsol).
• ACC (acetylcysteine) is the best medicine for bronchitis, but it is very important not to exceed the dosage. If the dose is exceeded, gastrointestinal tract disorders may occur - vomiting, diarrhea, ;
• syrups with medicinal herbs (Stoptussin phyto, Gelomirtol, Pertussin, Gerbion, Bronchicum).

Bronchodilators are drugs for the removal of mucus due to bronchospasm. In most cases they are prescribed in tablets. In severe cases, with severe bronchospasm, intramuscular or intravenous administration is possible.

Drugs in this group include:

• Aminophylline;
• Berodual;
• Salbutamol.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are not prescribed in all cases of acute or chronic forms of the disease, only for bacterial bronchitis.

Also, signs of bronchitis with fever are not always an absolute indication for the prescription of antibiotics. Indications for their use and dose are determined only by the attending physician. When assigning, the following is taken into account:

• severity of the current. If the degree is mild and there are no complications, antibacterial therapy is not necessary;
• concomitant pathology. For people with diseases of the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems, and for patients with weak immunity, antibiotics are prescribed from the first day of bacterial bronchitis;
• If bacterial strains are detected in sputum culture, antibiotic susceptibility assessment is performed.

• Semi-synthetic penicillins (Amoxiclav);
• Macrolides (Rosamycin azithromycin);
• Cephalosporin (Ceftriaxone);
• Fluoroquinolones (Levofloxacin).

It is important to comply dosage and course duration antibacterial therapy. Self-medication with antibiotics leads to extremely undesirable problems - dysbiosis, decreased immunity and the formation of antibiotic resistance.

Antihistamines

Prescribed for allergic bronchitis to reduce swelling of the bronchial walls and eliminate bronchospasm. Most often used:

• Suprastin;
• Diazolin.

Antihistamines can be used in the form of aerosols, drops, tablets, and injections.

Treatment with folk remedies

The most commonly used folk remedies are:

• Black radish with honey. To do this, you need to take a black radish, peel it, cut a hole in it, and put 1 tablespoon of honey there. When the juice is released, take one teaspoon 3 times a day. Another option for obtaining juice is to grate the radish and mix with honey in a 1:1 ratio. The product effectively relieves cough, but is contraindicated for people allergic to bee products.
• Infusion of medicinal herbs. It is most effective to use calamus, sage, chamomile, and calendula for bronchitis. Take 1-2 tablespoons of the herb per glass of boiling water and keep it in a water bath for 15 minutes. Afterwards, the infusion should be strained and drunk warm throughout the day.
• Has a good expectorant effect tangerine peel. To prepare the infusion, take 10 g of dry crushed peel and pour a glass of boiling water on the floor. Take the infusion 5 times a day, 1 tablespoon before meals.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapeutic methods are very effective in treating bronchitis in adults. The most commonly used methods are:

• inhalation;
• magnet;
• ultra-high frequency inductothermy;
• electrophoresis with calcium ions.

General contraindications for physiotherapeutic procedures are elevated body temperature, hemoptysis, and malignant neoplasms.

Inhalation

Most effective to use. These are special devices that allow you to turn medicinal and herbal solutions into a finely dispersed medium.

In this form, the therapeutic agent is easily delivered with the flow of inhaled air to even the smallest bronchi.

Nebulizers are stationary, for inhalation in medical institutions and household. Household nebulizers are sold in pharmacy chains.

Contraindications to inhalations are purulent processes in the bronchi.

Magnet

This method of physiotherapy has the following therapeutic effects:

• reduces inflammation and swelling of the mucous membrane;
• increases the tidal volume of the lungs;
• improves bronchial drainage;
• promotes the removal of sputum;
• strengthens the immune system;
• enhances the effect of antibiotics several times;
• promotes regeneration of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract.

Ultra-high frequency inductothermy (UHF)

When exposed to heat waves:

• blood circulation and lymph flow increase;
• inflammatory processes are reduced;
• the processes of restoration of damaged bronchial mucosa are accelerated.

It is especially useful for patients with low immunity and frequent colds.

Electrophoresis with calcium ions

This method is based on the simultaneous action of electric current and medication. For bronchitis in adults, aminophylline is most often used.

Electrophoresis with calcium thins sputum, helps its removal, and has an antihistamine and anti-inflammatory effect. Eufillin is used for bronchospasms.

Massage for bronchitis

Effectively helps with difficulties with sputum discharge. In the acute stage, massage is contraindicated. It is prescribed when the patient becomes noticeably better. Several massage techniques are used.

Vibration massage.

The technique involves tapping the back through the palm. As a result, phlegm is separated from the walls of the bronchi and is easier to come out with a cough. This technique is especially effective for chronic bronchitis.

Drainage massage.

Drainage massage promotes easier discharge of sputum, especially with chronic obstructive processes in the bronchi.

Vacuum massage.

Massage is done using special devices or using cups. The only disadvantage of this technique is pain and the presence of hematomas (bruises) on the back.

Acupuncture massage.

The effect is achieved by pressing on certain points. Acupuncture (acupressure) massage can only be performed by a qualified acupuncturist who is fluent in this technique.

Breathing exercises

Helps speed up the healing process and prevent bronchitis from becoming chronic. Patients with chronic bronchitis are recommended to do breathing exercises daily. This strengthens the muscles of the chest and bronchi, improves gas exchange in the alveoli, and removes congestion.

• increased body temperature;
• oncological diseases;
• acute thrombophlebitis.

Features of bronchitis during pregnancy

Pregnant women are at risk for developing bronchitis. This is due to the following mechanisms:

• in a woman during pregnancy There is a violation of immune tolerance. This makes pregnant women more susceptible to infection;
• changes in hormonal levels during pregnancy, they lead to the bronchial mucosa becoming looser and swollen, which adversely affects the course of the disease.

Consequences and complications of the disease

Pneumonia

The most common complication of acute inflammation of the bronchial mucosa. Pneumonia develops as a result of the transition of the inflammatory process from the bronchial wall to the lung tissue. Complications can lead to the development of acute respiratory failure. :

• a sharp rise in temperature with chills;
• weakness;
• pain, muscle aches;
• cough with phlegm;
• pain, discomfort in the chest.

X-rays of the chest reveal dark spots in the lung tissue.

Asthmatic syndrome

Asthmatic syndrome occurs in acute and chronic bronchitis. With the syndrome, the walls of the bronchi become loose, swollen, and thicken. This leads to severe shortness of breath and attacks of suffocation with minor physical exertion.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

It is characterized by significant bronchospasm, leading to a narrowing of the lumen of the bronchi, and cough with sputum.

The main symptom of COPD is difficulty breathing. Characteristic is an extended exhalation with a whistle. When listening to the lungs, dry rales are detected.

Cough with poorly separated sputum, especially in the morning, persists in patients even during the period of remission.

Bronchiectasis

It is a severe complication of chronic bronchitis. Due to frequent inflammatory processes, the walls of the terminal sections of the bronchi are deformed with the appearance of characteristic expansions in the form of pouches. With the next inflammation, the expansion is filled with purulent sputum. The main features are:

• cough with purulent discharge;
• severe intoxication;
• hemoptysis, in some cases can lead to pulmonary hemorrhage.

The diagnosis is made on the basis of x-ray examination in two projections and bronchoscopy data.

Emphysema

Emphysema is a consequence of long-term chronic bronchitis. The complication is characterized by the fact that the alveoli (lung tissue where gas exchange occurs) loses its elasticity and stretches.

The amount increases, and oxygen exchange processes are disrupted. This leads to oxygen starvation of all organs and tissues, including vital ones - the heart and lungs.

The diagnosis is confirmed by computed tomography and spirometry.

People at risk for developing bronchitis should be especially attentive to prevention.

To minimize the risk of illness, the following measures must be taken:

• stop smoking (including passive smoking);
• do physical exercises and breathing exercises every day;
• strengthening general immunity - hardening, balanced nutrition high in protein, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants;
• spend more time in the fresh air;
• avoid hypothermia;
• keep the house clean. Avoid excessive dry air. Regularly do wet cleaning and ventilate the room;
• timely treatment of all concomitant diseases;
• timely elimination of foci of chronic infection;
• During epidemics of acute viral infections, refrain from visiting crowded places.

If you still cannot avoid infection, consult a doctor immediately and strictly follow the treatment recommendations.

Since smoking is the most common cause of chronic bronchitis, avoiding this bad habit is one of the best ways to prevent its occurrence.

Forecast

With timely diagnosis and strict adherence by adults to all recommendations of the attending physician, the prognosis is favorable.

Chronic bronchitis with a long course with frequent exacerbations leads to the formation of complications in the form of pulmonary and heart failure.

Interesting

An important component of the human respiratory system is the bronchi. They connect the trachea and lung tissue and have some similarities with tubes. At the level of the 4th-5th thoracic vertebrae, the trachea divides into two main, large bronchi, which enter directly into the lungs. Already in the lung tissue, the main bronchi are divided into smaller ones, forming a bronchial tree, where small bronchioles reach only a few millimeters in diameter.

The entire surface of the bronchi is covered with epithelium with microscopic cilia and mucous glands responsible for the production of protective secretions. When various types of infections enter the body, intensive mucus production begins, caused by the inflammatory process. This is how bronchitis begins in adults. may also be hidden in other factors, which we will consider below.

Main causes and classification of acute form

Experts identify several main reasons that serve as an impetus for the occurrence of bronchitis in adults:

• viruses that can enter the body of adults through contact with a person suffering from influenza or another disease caused by adenoviruses, parainfluenza or respiratory syncytial infection;
• Bacteria entering the body begin to actively multiply and cause inflammation. The cause of bacterial bronchitis in an adult can be streptococci, staphylococci, pneumococci, mycobacterium tuberculosis, as well as atypical representatives of pathogenic flora - chlamydia and mycoplasma;

• allergens, such as plant pollen, household and industrial dust, animal hair, food and drinks, medications. An exacerbation of a disease caused by such a cause occurs upon contact with an irritant;
• toxic substances that can provoke general intoxication of the body. Against this background, bronchitis develops in adults;
• fungus (a rather rare provoking factor of the disease). At risk are weak and premature children, as well as adults with reduced immunity after intensive treatment.

In some cases, there may be several causes of the disease; for example, infectious bronchitis is initially diagnosed, but then it is replaced by bacterial bronchitis. In this case, there is a mixed etiology. There are other specific causes of bronchitis in adults, which are characteristic of its individual types.

Why does it appear?

Acute bronchitis occurs suddenly and is accompanied by an increase in temperature. In this case, the inflammatory process does not last long, and after recovery the bronchi are completely regenerated.

The causes of this type of disease in adults are:

• general hypothermia of the body or prolonged inhalation of too cold or dry hot air;
• smoking or frequent consumption of alcoholic beverages, which weaken the body’s protective functions. Among adults suffering from bronchitis, about 75% are active smokers;

• regular inhalation of polluted air. Dirt and dust particles irritate the bronchial mucosa, causing inflammation;
• complications after suffering an acute respiratory illness or flu can develop into bronchitis;
• infection caused by viruses, fungi and bacteria. Penetrating into the respiratory system, pathogenic flora irritates the bronchial epithelium.

Causes of the chronic form

Chronic bronchitis is called bronchitis, which torments adult patients for 2 or more years. In this case, the cough continues for at least 3 months a year. The inflammatory process progresses slowly, deforming and narrowing the walls of the bronchi.

Reasons:

• heredity and congenital anomalies of the bronchial tree. This makes the bronchi vulnerable to the negative effects of external factors. Even minor provocateurs can cause spasms and increased mucus production;
• working in harmful conditions that promote inflammation. Regularly entering the bronchi, the irritant (for example, coal dust) does not have time to be completely eliminated, which provokes in adults;

• exposure to cigarette smoke. There is even a concept “”: the disease is caused by constant irritation of the epithelium by smoke and the deposition of harmful substances and resins on it;
• chemical impurities in the air, for example, ammonia, carbon monoxide and a number of others;
• a decrease in the body’s protective functions, which makes it possible for inflammation to progress;
• penetration of pathogenic microorganisms into the body;
• weather conditions, but they only serve as a positive background for the development of existing inflammation.

Diagnostics

To correctly determine the type of bronchitis in adults, the doctor uses the following diagnostic techniques:

• examination. During its course, the specialist will be able to determine the presence of possible pathologies of the chest, and will also ask the patient about disturbing symptoms and the time of their appearance;
• Auscultation with a stethoscope, allowing you to clearly hear various noises and wheezing. Bronchitis is characterized by hard inhalation and exhalation, and with accumulation of sputum - scattered wheezing;

• (general), based on the results of which you can learn about the course of the infectious-inflammatory process. Bacterial bronchitis is characterized by an increase in leukocytes due to the presence of immature neutrophils and an increase in ESR;

If the cause of bronchitis in an adult was a viral infection, then the analysis will show a reduced number of immune cells, as well as an acceleration of ESR.

• radiography. With its help, you can see a change in the basal pattern of the bronchi. The presence of the disease will be confirmed if the bronchi located near the middle of the chest are more contrasting;

• Bronchoscopy is often performed to detect chronic bronchitis and determine its stage. To carry out the procedure, a special device, a bronchoscope, is used, which is inserted through the mouth.

To reduce the risk of bronchitis, it makes sense to take preventive measures.

To do this, you should eat rationally, including fresh vegetables and fruits in your daily menu, walk a lot in the fresh air and play sports. Avoiding stressful situations, as well as getting rid of bad habits, will have a positive impact on your health.

These measures will increase the body's resistance to viruses and bacteria.

This will be interesting: .

Often the symptoms of bronchitis in adults are perceived by people as the norm for the autumn-spring period. This disease occupies a leading place among respiratory pathologies. Doctors attach importance to timely treatment of bronchitis, which avoids more serious complications. How to recognize inflammation of the mucous membrane in time and how do different symptoms manifest themselves?

Officially, there are two types of bronchitis:

1. Spicy. It is characterized by a rapid onset, an obvious cause and noticeable symptoms, which significantly worsens the patient’s quality of life. The causative agent is often viruses that enter the bronchi from the upper sections (nasopharynx, larynx, trachea). After the acute form, improvement in well-being occurs on days 5-7, and after two weeks the symptoms completely disappear.
2. Chronic. Inflammation of the bronchi in this form lasts a long time and is a common condition in the patient’s daily life. Symptoms, as a rule, are erased and do not cause much discomfort to the person. The main symptom is a nonproductive cough, which is often paroxysmal. In the mornings and in cold weather, there may be an increase in coughing and the discharge of a small amount of sputum.

In practice, doctors also distinguish a third type – obstructive.

Symptoms of obstructive bronchitis

This form is diagnosed when the patient's breathing is very difficult. The mechanism of obstruction includes three pathological processes:

1. Narrowing of the lumen of the bronchi due to edema.
2. Increased smooth muscle tone and spasm of the respiratory tract.
3. Excessive mucus production and thickening.

Obstructive bronchitis can be recognized by its characteristic symptoms:

1. Progressive shortness of breath.
2. Paroxysmal cough.
3. Slight increase in temperature.
4. and wheezing.
5. Chest pain.

More often, obstruction occurs in young children due to physiological characteristics. Their airways are shorter and narrower than those of adults, so minor swelling can lead to difficulty breathing and narrowing of the bronchial tubes. In addition, a more abundant blood supply and loose structure of the mucous membrane play an important role.

What causes the symptoms?

An acute form of bronchitis in an adult may appear after exposure to various unfavorable factors:

1. Allergen. The bronchial mucosa reacts with hyperemia in response to the entry of a provoking substance into the respiratory tract. This property is extremely individual and is often genetically determined. You can get rid of such bronchitis only by eliminating contact with the allergen.
2. Infections. The vast majority of bronchitis is caused by a viral infection. Without proper treatment, bacterial flora may become active in the respiratory tract. It is almost impossible to prevent the virus from entering the body. However, with a high level of immunity, the body immediately fights the pathogen and bronchitis does not occur.
3. Irritating substances. Contact of the mucous membrane with chemicals, cigarette smoke, dust, and hot steam provokes an inflammatory process.

Chronic bronchitis is often the result of improper or incomplete treatment of the acute form. In addition, the cause may be prolonged inhalation of dust or gases (consequences of professional activity), as well as chronic nasal diseases.

Symptoms of the chronic form

It is difficult for a person to determine the starting date of symptoms, since coughing with this type of bronchitis bothers him constantly.

With prolonged inflammation, changes begin in the structure of the bronchi and lungs. Without proper treatment, they can become irreversible.

The main manifestations of the chronic form:

1. Persistent cough with a lot of mucus (lasts several months or years).
2. Coughing in the morning.
3. Difficulty breathing (first during physical activity, later during any movements).
4. Blue discoloration of nails and skin due to oxygen deficiency.

Symptoms of acute bronchitis

The onset of the disease is characterized by the appearance of hyperemia and swelling in the bronchial mucosa, which is caused by the contact of microbes or an allergen. This provokes hypersecretion of mucus, which the body tries to remove through a physiological act - coughing. Depending on the etiology of acute bronchitis, body temperature may be normal or elevated.

In severe cases, the inflammatory process affects not only the upper layer of the mucous membrane, but also the muscle layer, which becomes the cause of bronchospasm.

The likelihood of acute bronchitis increases in patients with other respiratory diseases - rhinitis, sinusitis, sinusitis.

Symptoms of allergic bronchitis

Respiratory allergens represent a fairly large part of all possible provoking factors. Their contact with the mucous membrane leads to a rapid hypersensitivity reaction, which manifests itself in the patient in the form of cough. Often people are able to independently trace such a relationship and identify the main cause of inflammation.

With allergic bronchitis in an adult, the following is observed:

1. There is a clear relationship between the symptoms and the irritant (when the contact is stopped, the cough subsides and stops).
2. Normal body temperature.
3. The cough is obsessive and paroxysmal in nature, and sputum production may not be observed.
4. The appearance of dry wheezing.
5. Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.
6. has increased viscosity, but light color.

As a rule, allergy sufferers know what they are hypersensitive to and do not doubt their diagnosis.

Symptoms of viral bronchitis

What are the first signs of viral bronchitis? Everyone knows. The incubation period can be very short - 1-2 days. During it, a person feels a change in general well-being, weakness, and drowsiness. The beginning of inflammation is manifested by the following symptoms:

1. Significant increase in body temperature.
2. Headache.
3. Cough with difficult to expectorate mucus.
4. Shortness of breath.

With proper treatment or an adequate immune response, symptoms subside after a few days and sputum production improves.

An indirect sign of viral bronchitis can be considered the presence of inflammation in the patient’s nasal or oral cavity, since it is from there that the infection spreads further along the respiratory tract.

Which doctor should I contact?

With any symptoms of illness, an adult can consult a therapist. If necessary, he will be referred to more specialized specialists - a pulmonologist, an infectious disease specialist, an allergist.

Not only treatment tactics, but also the patient’s speed of recovery depend on correct diagnosis.

Manifestation of bronchitis in children

Viruses are more often the cause of bronchial lesions in children. A bacterial pathogen can join as a secondary factor, especially with mechanical damage to the mucosa.

The inflammatory process in children is characterized by a longer course and deeper damage to the walls of the bronchi. This results in symptoms that are more severe than in adults.

In children, the disease manifests itself:

1. Respiratory failure. There is shortness of breath, blueness of the nasolabial triangle, and auxiliary muscles are involved in the act of breathing. In babies, you may notice swelling of the wings of the nose and an increase in the diameter of the chest.
2. Elevated temperature.
3. A dry, painful cough at the beginning of the disease and a wet cough afterwards.
4. Changes in percussion sounds and the presence of wheezing on auscultation.
5. Strengthening the pattern of the respiratory tract, which is visible from the results of x-ray examination.
6. Changes in blood parameters.

Bronchitis rarely occurs as an independent disease. Along with it, children experience hyperemia of the pharynx and runny nose.

Short airways in children contribute to the rapid spread of the pathological process and increase the likelihood of pneumonia. Pediatricians may order an x-ray to accurately determine the location of the inflammation.

Manifestations in pregnant women

In pregnant women, it is especially important to diagnose bronchitis in time to prevent infection from reaching the child and severe symptoms in the mother. The choice of drugs for treatment is limited, so measures need to be taken at the first symptoms.

The disease begins with symptoms such as nasal congestion and cough. A slight increase in temperature is possible. A pregnant woman may complain of a sore throat or chest discomfort. The onset of bronchitis is accompanied by general weakness and malaise. After about a week, the cough becomes more productive, it is possible to cough up phlegm and clear the airways.

In most cases, the cause is also viruses, so it can help pregnant women. To speed up recovery, you need to drink plenty of fluids, which will thin the mucus and relieve the symptoms of intoxication. Therapy for expectant mothers may include:

1. Linden or raspberry tea.
2. Warm milk with honey.
3. Honey compress.
4. Inhalations with saline solution or mineral waters.
5. Cocoa butter.
6. Breathing exercises.

Bronchitis is an infectious disease accompanied by diffuse inflammation of the bronchi. The main symptom of the disease is cough.

If the illness lasts less than three weeks, it is referred to as acute bronchitis. If the symptoms of bronchitis appear for at least three months during the year for two years or more, you can safely make a diagnosis of chronic bronchitis.

If the onset of the disease is accompanied by shortness of breath, then they speak of obstructive bronchitis.

Reasons for the development of bronchitis

Bronchitis is an infectious disease. The cause of bronchitis can be bacterial, viral or atypical flora.

The main bacterial pathogens of bronchitis: staphylococci, pneumococci, streptococci.

Viral bronchitis pathogens: influenza virus, respiratory syncytial infection, adenovirus, parainfluenza, etc.

Atypical pathogens of bronchitis: chlamydia (Chlamydia pneumonia), mycoplasma (Mycoplasma pneumonia). They are called atypical due to the fact that in their biological characteristics they occupy an intermediate position between bacteria and viruses. Like viruses, they spend most of their life cycle inside a cell, but their cell characteristics are in many ways similar to bacteria.

Very rarely, bronchitis is caused by a fungal infection.

Often there is a combination of different pathogens. For example, the disease begins as a viral infection, and then pathogens of a bacterial nature are added. At the same time, viruses, as it were, open the gates for bacteria, creating favorable conditions for their reproduction. This variant of the course is the most common, which is confirmed by a sharp increase in incidence in the autumn and winter, when there is a seasonal spread of viral infections.

A necessary condition for the development of bronchitis is a decrease in the activity of the patient’s immune system, which normally ensures the body’s immunity to infectious diseases.

Risk factors for infection are age over 50 years, smoking, working in hazardous production conditions, frequent hypothermia, alcoholism, chronic diseases of internal organs in the decompensation stage.

Symptoms of bronchitis

Main symptom of bronchitis- cough . The cough can be dry (without sputum) or wet (with sputum). The discharge of sputum, especially with a green tint, is a reliable criterion for bacterial inflammation. A dry cough can occur with a viral or atypical infection. The most common evolution of cough is from dry to wet. In acute illness, the cough is paroxysmal. in this case, coughing attacks can be so severe that they are accompanied by a headache.

Symptoms of acute bronchitis

Acute bronchitis is accompanied by a rise in temperature to 38-39 degrees, chills, and excessive sweating. There is general weakness, fatigue and a significant decrease in performance. The severity of symptoms can range from moderate to very severe.
When examining the patient, scattered wheezing, heard on auscultation, and harsh breathing are noticeable. With moderate or severe disease, the patient begins to suffer from shortness of breath and chest pain.

The average duration of acute bronchitis is 10-14 days. Exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, especially in the absence of adequate treatment, can last for weeks.

Symptoms of chronic bronchitis

In chronic bronchitis, cough with scanty sputum, shortness of breath during exercise can be constant symptoms that accompany the patient throughout life. In this case, an exacerbation of bronchitis is said to occur if there is a significant increase in the above symptoms: increased cough, increased volume of sputum, increased shortness of breath, the appearance of fever, etc.

Bronchitis, especially acute, rarely occurs in isolation. Most often it is combined with symptoms of rhinitis (runny nose) and tracheitis. This certainly has an impact on the overall clinical picture.

What tests will you need to take if you suspect bronchitis?

In any case, if you have symptoms of bronchitis, you will have to take a clinical blood test. If pneumonia is suspected, they will force you to take an x-ray, but most often they do without it.

It is mandatory to submit a sputum test (if there is one, of course) for microscopy with a Gram-stained smear. A cytological examination of sputum is carried out with mandatory counting of cellular elements. In case of prolonged illness, chronic or often recurrent bronchitis, it is worth doing a sputum culture for microflora with mandatory determination of sensitivity to antibiotics.

They also make a swab from the throat for microflora and fungi.

Frequent bronchitis is an indication for a blood test for antibodies(immunoglobulins classes M and G) to atypical infections(Chlamydia pneumonia and Mycoplasma pneumonia).

For obstructive bronchitis, spirography (external respiration function test) is required. If there is a pronounced decrease in bronchial patency, spirography is supplemented with a test with a bronchodilator drug (salbutaml, ventolin, berodual, etc.). The purpose of such a study is to determine the reversibility of pathological changes and exclude possible concomitant diseases, for example, bronchial asthma.

Frequent exacerbations of bronchitis or chronic bronchitis are an indication for bronchoscopy. The goal is to identify concomitant lung diseases that can cause symptoms similar to bronchitis.

Recurrent bronchitis requires mandatory x-ray examination. First of all, FLG (fluorography) or radiography is done. The most informative method of x-ray examination is computed tomography.

Treatment of bronchitis

Bronchitis– a rather serious disease, treatment of bronchitis should be carried out by a doctor. It determines the optimal drugs for the treatment of bronchitis, their dosage and combination. Under the guise of bronchitis, a number of diseases can occur, untimely diagnosis and improper treatment of which can have very sad consequences.

The regime for bronchitis is bed or semi-bed. “Heroes” who try to survive the disease on their feet have every chance of developing heart complications or making acute bronchitis chronic.

The treatment of bronchitis is based on the use of anti-infective drugs.

Antibacterial drugs come first in importance. First-line drugs include penicillin derivatives (drugs: flemoklav, flemoxin, augmentin, etc.) and macrolides (drugs: macropen, fromilid, azithromycin, hemomycin, rovamycin, vilprafen). Second-line drugs include cephalosporins (drugs: suprax, cefixime, cefazolin, cephalexin, claforan, cefataxime, fortum, ceftazidime, cefepime, ceftriaxone, rocephin), respiratory fluoroquinolones (sparfloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin). In case of mild to moderate severity of the disease, it is preferable to use dosage forms for oral administration (tablets, suspension, syrups, etc.); in case of severe form, the only possible method of administering the drug is injection. Sometimes both methods of drug administration are combined.

If a viral etiology (cause of development) of bronchitis is suspected, it is necessary to supplement treatment with antiviral drugs. The most affordable broad-spectrum drugs are Viferon, Genferon, Kipferon. Dosages depend on the age of the patient. Duration of use is at least 10 days.

When treating bronchitis, it is mandatory to prescribe expectorants. Currently, pharmacies offer a huge number of drugs of this pharmacological group: ACC, fluimucil, lazolvan, mucaltin, ambroxol, libexin-muco, fluditec, bromhexine, etc. Release forms: tablets for oral administration, syrups, effervescent tablets, powders. Dosages depend on the age and weight of the patient.

Separately, I would like to highlight the drug erespal (fenspiride). It has both expectorant and anti-inflammatory effects. Available in tablet and syrup form. Treatment for at least 10 days. Can be prescribed even to children under 1 year of age.

The presence of shortness of breath during bronchitis is a direct indication for the use of bronchodilators. They are available in tablet forms (aminophylline, teopec, teotard) and inhalation forms (inhalation aerosol: berodual, berotec, salbutamol).

It is possible to use combination drugs to treat bronchitis. For example, Ascoril syrup combines the properties of an expectorant and bronchodilator.

Popular home remedies, such as cupping and mustard plasters, are not effective for bronchitis.

It is possible to use multivitamin complexes in the treatment complex.

Features of nutrition and lifestyle with bronchitis

Against the background of exacerbation of bronchitis, drinking plenty of fluids is traditionally recommended. For an adult, the daily volume of fluid consumed should be at least 3 – 3.5 liters. Alkaline fruit drink, hot milk and Borjomi in a 1:1 ratio are usually well tolerated.

The daily diet should contain a sufficient amount of proteins and vitamins. Against the background of high temperature and general intoxication, you can fast a little (if the body requires it, of course), but in general, any restrictive diets are contraindicated for such patients.

The use of inhalation using a nebulizer shows high efficiency. As a solution for inhalation, you can use mineral water, Ringer's solution or regular saline solution. Procedures are carried out 2-3 times a day for 5-10 days. These manipulations promote the discharge of phlegm, facilitate drainage of the bronchial tree, and reduce inflammation.

Lifestyle correction is necessary to eliminate risk factors for the development of infectious diseases of the upper respiratory tract. First of all, this concerns smoking and various types of occupational hazards (dusty production, working with paints and varnishes, frequent hypothermia, etc.).

The use of breathing exercises, for example, according to the Strelnikova method, has an excellent effect on chronic lung diseases. This also applies to chronic bronchitis.

Outside of exacerbation of bronchitis, hardening measures can be carried out.

Treatment of bronchitis with folk remedies

Very popular folk remedy for bronchitis - steam inhalations. To do this, it is recommended to breathe in the steam generated when cooking potatoes, etc. This method, of course, helps some when used carefully, but more often its use causes burns to the mucous membranes and subsequent aggravation of bronchitis.

Maybe treatment of bronchitis with herbal remedies. Most often, the following herbs and their combination are used to treat bronchitis: thyme, licorice, oregano, linden, coltsfoot, plantain. To prepare the decoction, pour 1 tablespoon of the mixture into ½ liter of boiling water and leave for 2 hours. Take 1/3 cup 3 times a day. The course of treatment is 7-10 days. The method is really effective in complex treatment of chronic bronchitis.

Use kumis or goat's milk in the treatment of acute and chronic bronchitis: It is recommended to drink at least 1 glass of milk 3-4 times a day – for a long time. I have not seen any reliable data on the effectiveness of this method.

Use a mixture of onions and honey in a 1:1 ratio, passed through a meat grinder according to the following scheme: 1 tablespoon - 2 times a day for 10-14 days. Sometimes it is recommended to use garlic instead of onions. A number of patients actually had an effect, the majority experienced an exacerbation of gastrointestinal diseases. Perhaps the side effects of the method can be avoided by reducing the onion content in the mixture.

Bronchitis in children

In children, bronchitis has the same symptoms as in adults. The main symptom of bronchitis in a child is cough. Symptoms of intoxication during bronchitis in children are usually very pronounced. If possible, you should refrain from excessive use of antibacterial agents.

When a child develops shortness of breath, it is always necessary to carry out a differential diagnosis with bronchial asthma. Three to four episodes of obstructive bronchitis per year are a clear indication for consultation with an allergist and allergy diagnostics.

At treatment of bronchitis in children preference should be given to inhalation therapy. Children are given inhalations with mineral water, expectorants (lazolvan, fluimucil) and bronchodilators (berodual, atrovent) drugs. If necessary, antibacterial agents can be used for inhalation (tobramycin solution, dioxidin 0.5% solution, furatsilin 0.02% solution). This method of treatment allows you to effectively combat the symptoms and causes of bronchitis and has a minimum of side effects.

Bronchitis during pregnancy

Symptoms of bronchitis in pregnant women do not differ from the symptoms of bronchitis in other categories of patients. The main symptom of bronchitis is also a cough.

But there are a number of features in the treatment, since many drugs are prohibited for use during this period of life due to their potential negative effect on the fetus. For example, tetracycline derivatives, streptomycin, and chloramphenicol are prohibited for use. Eufillin is used with caution.
Of the approved antibacterial drugs, I would like to mention vilprafen. A drug with a high safety profile and sufficient antibacterial activity.

In the treatment of bronchitis in pregnant women, emphasis is placed on inhalation therapy.

Possible complications of bronchitis and prognosis

The course of an acute disease is usually favorable and ends in complete recovery. Sometimes bronchitis can be complicated by pneumonia and the development of bronchiectasis.

Chronic bronchitis, if left untreated, can lead to respiratory or heart failure.

Prevention of bronchitis

There are several approaches to the prevention of this infectious disease.

1) Taking immuno-strengthening drugs during the season of possible exacerbation (autumn-winter). This method is most suitable for patients with chronic bronchitis or frequent exacerbations of acute bronchitis.
The drugs bronchomunal, ribomunil, IRS-19, etc. showed a good effect in this regard. Schemes and dosages are determined by the doctor.
Options for nonspecific immunocorrection also include regular intake of multivitamin complexes.

2) Vaccination of patients.
Considering the high prevalence of pneumococcal infection and its huge contribution to the occurrence of this disease, most experts recommend that patients at risk be vaccinated with the PNEVO-23 vaccine, which provides immune protection specifically against this type of pathogen. The effect of vaccination lasts for 5 years.
Also taking into account the fact that viral infections are most often the trigger for the development of bronchitis, annual vaccination of people belonging to the influenza virus group is recommended.
Who can be considered at risk? First of all, these are people over 50 years old, patients suffering from chronic diseases of internal organs (heart, lungs, kidneys, etc.). Traditionally, women planning pregnancy and people whose professional activities involve communicating with people (medical workers, teachers, salespeople, etc.) are vaccinated. Vaccination is mandatory for people receiving anticoagulant drugs (acetylsalicylic acid, warfarin, etc.) for a long time.

3) Following basic rules of personal hygiene, for example, frequent hand washing, using disposable handkerchiefs is a fairly simple way to prevent infectious diseases.

Answers to frequently asked questions on the topic of acute and chronic bronchitis:

How effective are breathing exercises for bronchitis?
Breathing exercises, for example, according to the Strelnikova or Buteyko method, is an essential component of treatment, especially for chronic bronchitis.

I suspect that I have allergic bronchitis. Is this possible?
There is no such diagnosis as allergic bronchitis. It is possible to develop an infectious disease against the background of bronchial asthma. In this case, allergic inflammation and the infectious process seem to “support” each other. In any case, it is necessary to consult an allergist and conduct a full allergological examination (skin tests, blood tests to identify specific antibodies to allergens, etc.).

What diseases can chronic bronchitis be confused with?
The list of diseases accompanied by a lingering cough is quite long. First of all, differential diagnosis is carried out between tuberculosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchiectasis, asthma, and cancer.

pulmonologist, allergist-immunologist, Ph.D. Mayorov R.V.