Bronchitis most often occurs against the background of colds, for example, ARVI, influenza, although it may also have a different origin. Bronchitis can occur due to exposure to aggressive physical or chemical factors, for example, dust, gasoline vapors, acetone, and paints. The disease develops under the influence of atypical factors and may be of an allergic nature.

But predominantly bronchitis is of an infectious nature - bacterial or viral, and is almost always accompanied by diffuse inflammation of the bronchial mucosa, which leads to a characteristic painful symptom - cough, which has a different character, greatly exhausts the sick person, especially since its duration is quite long, in on average, 3 weeks.

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In this article we want to talk about the features of the occurrence, course and treatment of bronchitis in adults. This topic becomes very relevant not only during ARVI epidemics, but even in the summer, when people do not expect the appearance of colds that are complicated by bronchitis. But, alas, no one is immune from bronchitis at any time of the year.

Reasons for the development of bronchitis

As mentioned above, the most common and common cause of acute or chronic bronchitis among the adult contingent there is a viral, bacterial or atypical flora.

The main bacterial pathogens causing development The inflammatory process in the bronchial tree, today, are different strains of staphylococci, pneumococci or streptococci.

Bronchitis may have viral nature, it occurs against the background of damage to the bronchial mucosa by influenza viruses, parainfluenza, adenoviruses, cytomegaloviruses, respiratory syncytial viruses, enteroviruses, etc.

Atypical factors leading to bronchitis include quite rare bacterial pathogens, these are chlamydia, mycoplasma. They are called atypical because they biological characteristics force researchers to place them in an intermediate class between viruses and bacteria.

Very often, the cause of bronchitis is mixed pathogenic flora from the very beginning of the disease. But most often, against the background of damage to the bronchial mucosa, one type of infectious agent is associated with another type. For example, viral bronchitis gives way to bacterial bronchitis.

Viral infections almost always open the door to bacterial infection, create the most favorable conditions for the reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms. That is why, in the midst of viral epidemics in winter period This is how bronchitis is often recorded in the adult population.

Factors contributing to the occurrence of bronchitis among adults

The first and most important condition that is necessary for the occurrence of bronchitis is, of course, a weakening of the immune system in an adult, which, while in good condition ensures the body's resistance and immunity to various external agents environment— viral and bacterial pathogenic flora.

Features of chronic bronchitis in adults

Chronic cough is characterized by a satisfactory condition; it almost always has a wet cough with easily discharged sputum of a mucopurulent or purulent nature. The peak of exacerbations usually occurs in the winter. The disease begins to develop at a young age, but over time, chronic bronchitis becomes more pronounced, which occurs closer to 40-50 years of age.

At the time of exacerbation, weakness, poor health, a rise in body temperature to 38 degrees, chills, excessive sweating. Even with relatively satisfactory condition a person’s performance decreases sharply, especially if shortness of breath occurs.

Chronic bronchitis has a high prevalence among the adult population, especially among men, among smokers, in which case it is often called “smoker’s cough.” Exacerbations occur more than 2-3 times within one year and are repeated with such frequency for more than 2 years. Every year the disease becomes more pronounced. Total time the course of the disease in one year exceeds 3 months.

Why is “smoker's cough” dangerous?

With chronic bronchitis, not only the bronchial tree suffers, but certain areas of the lungs, and even the entire body as a whole. Most often, chronic bronchitis becomes obstructive, why the disease called Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, which is abbreviated as COPD. This type of disease usually occurs due to smoking or in the absence of treatment.

Changes in the lungs against the background of COPD become irreversible, so the essence of therapy is no longer a complete cure of the disease, but the treatment of complications, symptomatic treatment, strengthening the body, alleviating the course of this disease.

If obstruction of the lungs persists for a long time, then a violation of the drainage function of all bronchi inevitably occurs. Air begins to linger in the alveoli and lung tissue. As soon as bronchospasm joins, the process of formation of pulmonary emphysema begins. As a result, pulmonary ventilation is quickly disrupted, respiratory failure develops, the cardiovascular system, nervous system and the entire body suffer.

If symptoms consistent with COPD or smokers' cough occur, it is very important to differential diagnosis in order to promptly exclude or detect diseases such as tuberculosis, bronchiectasis, bronchial asthma, and cancer, which often occur against the background of COPD.

What examination is necessary for adult patients to clarify the diagnosis of bronchitis?

If you suspect chronic bronchitis, you will have to take a clinical blood test and take an x-ray of the lungs. Doctors often prescribe spirography to study function external respiration, which is very important when obstructive bronchitis adult patients.

In order to exclude the development of bronchial asthma, spirography is performed with a drug load of Salbutamol or Berodual, which relieve bronchospasm.

At frequent exacerbations bronchitis, adult patients are advised to undergo bronchoscopy to identify concomitant diseases of the respiratory tract, which have similar symptoms to bronchitis.

If necessary, anti-inflammatory therapy is prescribed and antibacterial agents. They become necessary if there is a threat of a complication, as indicated, for example, by a high temperature for more than 3 days, or an increase in it a few days after the onset of the disease, even during treatment.

At the first symptoms of bronchitis, there is no point in turning to antibiotics, since most often (in the case of an acute form) the onset of the disease is caused by a viral infection, the effect of which is not covered by antibiotics. Treatment of chronic bronchitis in adults requires antibiotic therapy if an obstructive form occurs.

The choice of antibiotic is carried out precisely in accordance with the pathogen, which is the real cause of inflammation in the lungs. With properly selected antibacterial treatment, the symptoms of bronchitis begin to subside within 4-5 days from the start of therapy.

For the treatment of bronchitis in adults, antibiotics of choice are:

• penicillins (Amoxicillin, Flemoxin, Augmentin),
• cephalosporins (Cefixime, Cefazolin, Claforan, Cefuroxime, Cefaclor),
• macrolides (Vilpramen, Clarithromycin, Azithromycin, Erythromycin, Macropen, Rovamycin),
• fluoroquinolones (Levofloxacin, Sparfloxacin, Moxifloxacin), etc.

You can use the drug with antibiotics for local application– Bioparox. Antibiotics can be administered orally, parenterally, or by inhalation, such as a nebulizer.

For viral bronchitis it is necessary to use for treatment antiviral drugs, for example, leukocyte Interferon, Remantadine for influenza, RNase and Deoxyribonuclease for adenovirus infection, Genferon, Viferon, Kipferon, etc. The duration of antiviral therapy is at least 10 days.

In addition to these medications, symptomatic and auxiliary treatment is used, which includes the use antihistamines, immunotropic drugs, antipyretics, vitamins, cardiac drugs, etc.

Can be used as an addition to the main treatment regimen traditional methods treatments - herbal preparations, infusions, decoctions. The use of cups and mustard plasters in the treatment of bronchitis practically does not give any tangible results.

Acute bronchitis is called inflammation of the bronchial mucosa. The occurrence of this disease is provoked by the same pathogenic microorganisms that cause influenza, ARVI and other colds. Bronchitis is characterized by a large amount of mucus, which is secreted when bronchial tissues are irritated. This yellowish-gray mucus obstructs the normal flow of air, causing difficulty breathing, and is partially released when coughing.

This disease occurs in the cold season against the background of:

• reduction protective forces body;
• hypothermia;
• prolonged stress;
• overwork;
• direct contact with sick people;
• contact with chemical irritants and allergens.

Provoking factors are:

• smoking;
• excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages;
• chronic diseases of the nasopharynx;
• heart failure leading to congestion in the lungs;
• frequent colds;
• unfavorable climatic or microclimatic conditions (dry or too humid air, dampness, sudden temperature changes).

Often acute bronchitis in adults it begins with a cold, then inflammatory process moves to the chest area. Cough is a reaction to a blockage respiratory tract. At the beginning of the disease, a dry cough is noted, which after several days becomes wet with the discharge of mucopurulent sputum.

The main symptoms of acute bronchitis in adults:

• general malaise;
• feeling of weakness and decreased ability to work;
• difficulty wheezing;
• increased sweating;
• pain in the upper chest;
• body aches;
• temperature rise.

At severe form the temperature rises to 38° and above, shortness of breath and signs of intoxication appear.

Acute symptoms with a favorable course of the disease decrease after 3-4 days, and disappear completely after a week and a half. For people with good immunity acute bronchitis is not dangerous. But without proper treatment against the background of reduced immunity, it can recur or become chronic, which is quite difficult to cure. An extremely unpleasant outcome of the disease will be pneumonia. This disease is very dangerous for people with heart and kidney failure.

If symptoms do not go away within 3 weeks, we can talk about a chronic form or complications of the disease.

Timely and competent treatment is the key to complete recovery of the body after an illness. But in order to appoint correct treatment, it is necessary to determine the cause of the disease.

Classification of bronchitis

Infectious – caused by an attack pathogenic bacteria or atypical pathogens, such as chlamydia or mycoplasma.

Viral – provoked by various viral infections (adenoviruses, rhinoviruses, influenza and parainfluenza viruses).

Allergic – occurs against the background allergic reactions. Complications of this type of bronchitis can be bronchial asthma or obstructive bronchitis.

Tuberculosis - develops when Mycobacterium tuberculosis is activated.

How to treat acute bronchitis in an adult?

The diagnosis is made based on:

• general examination and listening using a phonendoscope;
• blood and urine tests;
• in some cases a chest x-ray is required;
• sputum culture if a bacteriological infection is suspected;
• spirogram, which provides data on the state of external respiration function.

After a diagnosis of bronchitis is made, treatment is prescribed; in adults, it is carried out taking into account the patient’s condition. If the patient’s condition is serious, treatment in a hospital is indicated, where the necessary round-the-clock care will be provided.

If you treat acute bronchitis at home, you must follow a number of conditions:

• maintaining a gentle regime of activity and rest;
• maintaining a certain level of humidity in the room using special air humidifiers;
• quitting smoking;
• timely taking of medications according to the schedule and dosage indicated by the attending physician;
• regular warm, plentiful drinks.

Acute bronchitis with relieved symptoms and treatment in adults without drugs

Mild bronchitis goes away on its own. In non-severe forms of the disease, the main goal of treatment is to relieve the symptoms of acute bronchitis in adults. On the topic of how to treat bronchitis in an adult, there are many recommendations, as in medical sources, and in the treasury of folk wisdom.

The biggest concern with bronchitis is a cough. Therefore, first of all, it is necessary to ensure that the bronchi are cleansed of mucus. A more liquid substance is easier to remove from the bronchi. Mucus that has accumulated and thickened in the bronchi can be thinned using:

• drinking special decoctions and infusions with expectorants;
• breathing exercises.

Inhalations

Inhalation is based on inhaling steam. But it's better to enrich the steam useful components, then inhalation will become much more effective.

The easiest way is to heat water in a small container to a temperature close to boiling. Add a pinch of baking soda, cover with a large towel and breathe. Add a few drops of pine or eucalyptus oil. This oil-alkaline inhalation perfectly thins mucus, helping it to be coughed up. In addition, it has antiseptic and antibacterial properties.

A more modern way is to carry out inhalations using inhalers and nebulizers. The devices convert the therapeutic mixture into an aerosol, which settles on areas of inflamed tissue.

Decoctions and infusions

As with any cold, doctors recommend drinking plenty of warm fluids for bronchitis. You should avoid alcohol and coffee, which provoke the removal of water from the body, causing the mucus in the bronchi to become thicker.

For mild forms of the disease, decoctions of licorice and marshmallow roots, leaves of coltsfoot, elecampane, thyme, oregano, and plantain help. These herbs are fairly easy to obtain in pharmacies.

Onions and garlic have strong antimicrobial and antiseptic properties. Honey with onions is an effective cough remedy, as has long been noted in folk medicine.

A good remedy is milk with honey. Drinking a glass of milk at night has a calming effect not only on the tissues of the nasopharynx, but also on the nervous system.

The disease does not encourage physical activity; however, a set of simple exercises must be performed several times a day. This can be squats, bends, muscle stretching. While exercising, it is important to monitor your breathing: inhale slowly and quickly exhale noisily. For example, when standing, you inhale, and when sitting, you exhale deeply. Breathing exercises are useful for bronchitis and help clear the airways. You shouldn’t be too zealous either, so as not to cause complications from other organs.

Exercises

Treatment of acute bronchitis in adults with medications

The complex of drugs used to treat this disease can be divided into 2 groups:

1 – medications aimed at combating the pathogen and suppressing inflammation;

2 – drugs that alleviate the patient’s condition and eliminate symptoms.

Medicines that eliminate the cause of the disease and eliminate the inflammatory process

If the causative agent of the disease is viruses, then antiviral drugs. These include:

• rimantadine;
• arbidol;
• interferons;
• amiksin;
• amizon.

Tablets of this series have a complex effect on the body. They not only suppress the activity of a particular virus, but also increase the body's resistance to other viruses.

If the infection is bacterial in nature, it is prescribed antibacterial drugs. It should be borne in mind that uncontrolled use of antibiotics only causes harm to the body. Only the attending physician should prescribe medications, taking into account the specific effects of the drug and the possible reaction of a particular human body to it.

Indications for antibacterial therapy are the following symptoms:

• high (more than 38.5°) temperature for 3 or more days;
• pronounced intoxication of the body;
• cough with shortness of breath and signs of lack of air;
• a large amount of yellow-green sputum.

This type of disease can be quickly treated with antibiotics.

Groups of antibacterial drugs:

• Aminopenicillins, which include Amoxicillin, Flemoxin, Flemoclav, Amoxiclav;
• Cephalosporins – Cephaterozone, Ceftriaxone, Maxipim, Cefatoxime;
• Macrolides are prescribed for intolerance to other types of antibacterial drugs.
• Aminoclicosides have a wide spectrum of action and can serve as an alternative to previous groups of drugs.

Means to alleviate the patient's condition

To improve the patient's condition, use medicines easing the course of the disease:

• antipyretics;
• expectorants;
• antitussives.

Antipyretics. If the temperature is not higher than 38.5°, it should not be reduced. This temperature is seen as a powerful factor in the body's fight against infection. After the immune system detects pathogenic organisms, a special substance, interleukin, begins to be produced. The entry of interleukin into the brain triggers the process of generating additional energy to enhance resistance to infection. At elevated body temperatures, the reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms stops or slows down, and metabolism accelerates. Recovery occurs faster if you do not bring down the temperature, lower limit values. The temperature normalizes with a favorable course of the disease after 2-3 days.

At very high temperatures, antipyretics are prescribed, such as:

• paracetamol;
• aspirin;
• metamizole sodium (analgin);
• ibuprofen;
• Ibuklin is a drug derived from ibuprofen and paracetamol.
• erespal is a broad-spectrum drug that reduces fever, reduces swelling and bronchospasm, and improves mucus discharge.

Sometimes during illness there is a sharp drop in temperature. This fact may indicate a number of reasons:

• decreased immune system activity;
• intoxication, which temporarily disrupts the activity of the hypothalamus, which weakens the control of thermoregulation;
• physical or mental stress, fatigue.

Expectorants. They reduce the viscosity of sputum, loosen it, thereby improving coughing. The most common expectorants are:

• ACC (acetycysteine);
• Lazalvan, Flavamed, Bromhexidine - thin sputum, restore the bronchial mucosa;
• Pertusin, Mukaltin, Alteyka, Pectolvan - the basis of the drugs are herbal ingredients, have virtually no contraindications.

Antitussives. Prescribed for dry cough initial stage diseases. Physiological function cough - cleansing the respiratory tract. But with a dry cough, phlegm is not removed. Coughing is caused by irritated nerve endings in inflamed bronchial tissue.

The spectrum of action of antitussive drugs is wide:

• inhibit the cough reflex due to its effect on a certain center in the brain;
• have a calming effect on mucous membranes;
• relieve bronchial spasms.

Quite effective and safe drugs are:

• Ambrobene;
• Mukobene;
• Ambroxol.

Narcotic antitussives prescribed to adults include:

• Codelac;
• Tedein;
• Codderpin.

Important to consider! Expectorants are actively used in the acute phase of the disease. They cannot be combined with antitussives, the action of which is aimed at suppressing a dry hacking cough.

This disease is quite widespread; when it occurs, the respiratory system suffers. Therefore, every person should know the symptoms, diagnosis and healing procedure. The disease, when inflammation occurs in the bronchial system, increased secretion occurs and patency is impaired, is called bronchitis. In addition to respiratory manifestations, the disease is accompanied by general intoxication.

Appears from pathogens that cause common colds and infections that appear in the upper respiratory tract. At bronchial disease mucus appears. Small villi in their usual form perfectly cleanse inhaled air masses and lose their active mobility in mucus.

Important! If self-treatment does not produce an effect within several days and difficulty breathing does not go away, you must call a doctor or an ambulance.

Because the villus loses its ability to purify the inhaled air, and an increase in the influence of irritating elements on the area of ​​the bronchial system occurs. This leads to increased mucous secretion, causing a negative cough that characterizes bronchitis. During attacks, viscous sputum is usually yellow or gray.

It is noted that in the initial stage, the disease behaves like a common cold. Subsequently, it is localized in the chest area. During the inflammatory process, in the cells located in the bronchi area, the secretion of viscous mucus increases, the respiratory ducts become clogged, breathing becomes difficult and causes all sorts of symptoms.

A cough is accompanied by the presence of mucus in the bronchi and must be removed. When sick, gray or light yellow sputum is produced during attacks. Severe pain in the area of ​​the upper chest accompany the disease, they increase significantly during coughing attacks.

For large quantity patients, the disease does not pose any danger, it is perfectly treatable. But for people who smoke and suffer from asthma and other lung diseases, who inhale dirty air a lot and often (for hazardous work), the risk of developing various bronchitis increases significantly.

If heart failure occurs, bronchitis is very dangerous and requires a long recovery. If the patient has a cough and there are blood streaks in the clots (or have a greenish tint), you should immediately visit a doctor; it may turn out to be inflammatory processes in the lung area.

Symptoms

Expressed as follows:

• Cough (dry) – appears on early manifestations, the duration depends on various reasons.
• Wet cough - appears in the second type stage. The patient experiences a discharge of fluid that is clear or yellowish-green in color.
• Temperature rises to 38 degrees
• Manifestation of weakness, malaise, increased sweating.
• A significant decrease in activity and the occurrence of shortness of breath.
• The occurrence of wheezing in the area of ​​the lungs, they are of a dry and rather rough type. During expectoration, wheezing takes on the stage of wet sounds.

As a rule, cough is one of the main signs of damage to the bronchial region. If these symptoms are detected, a full examination is prescribed.

Important! Acute manifestation The disease usually occurs suddenly, however, a proper examination will give results after 3 weeks.

To understand that a disease associated with acute inflammation of the respiratory system has begun, you need to pay attention to the following factors:

• Presence of high temperature (about 3 days).
• Children experience shortness of breath.
• Chest swelling occurs.
• Accessory muscles take part in breathing.
• Compliant zones are drawn into the chest area.
• There is wheezing when breathing.

Symptoms in children

The disease in its aggravated form is observed in children already on the first day of the development of acute respiratory viral infections; cases are quite rare when the disease occurs after 2-3 days from initial stage diseases. This is explained by the fact that the child’s body is more susceptible than the adult population. This is due to the physiological characteristics of children:

• The child's immune mechanisms are imperfect for antimicrobial protection.
• Peculiarities bronchial tree designed in such a way that they prevent the outflow of sputum.
• Tendency to excessive production of sputum and the inability of the cilia to bring it out.
• Contacts of children with other children who have viral pathogens. This usually happens in kindergartens.
• Increased reactivity of smooth muscle components associated with the bronchial wall. This, as a rule, leads to spasms and maximum narrowing of the lumens in the respiratory system.

Important! As noted by experts, in childhood the disease is most severe and takes a much longer time than in adults. It is noted that what younger age sick, the more dangerous the disease progresses. This lasts until the characteristics of the bronchi change and serious changes in the immune system occur.

In children, clinical features differ significantly from adults. For them, not only coughing attacks come first, but also signs of intoxication. When an illness occurs, the child becomes very lethargic, weakened, refuses to eat, and does not even drink water.

In severe cases, with symptoms of the disease, shortness of breath occurs, breathing is difficult and is accompanied by bubbling and sharp sounds and wheezing. In older children, the course of the disease in this form appears much less frequently.

The baby exhibits the following ailments:

• Breathing becomes noisy and whistling.
• Concern and nervousness.
• The child is in satisfactory condition.
• Body temperature is subfebrile.
• Shortness of breath occurs.
• Accessory muscles take an active part in breathing.

Signs

If an illness occurs, you should check your condition for signs indicating the occurrence of this disease. Considering the fact that inflammatory processes are most often characterized by acute respiratory infections, great attention should be paid to the condition of the bronchi, which arise against the background of acute illnesses. In the presence of active viral infections, the surface of the bronchi is an easy target for the emergence and growth of pathogenic microbes. The important point here is that the disease is significantly complicated by the addition of microbial flora. It is during this period that the treatment procedure undergoes changes, and doctors change its scheme.

In inflammatory processes, the following factors are most clearly noticeable:

• Cough. It is the main sign of the manifestation of the disease, both in acute and chronic forms. It is quite serious, interferes with proper sleep, and can even cause vomiting in children. Subsequently, mucus with impurities of pus begins to come out, this indicates the presence of pathogenic microbes in the bronchi. A sick person gets relief by changing the type of cough.
• Increase in body temperature. This refers to the main symptom of the inflammatory process in the bronchi. Body temperature can rise to 40 degrees, sometimes even higher.

There are cases when bronchitis develops as a respiratory disease caused by infection. The sick person experiences a slight increase in temperature, a headache, a wet cough and a significant deterioration in general condition. Many sick people do not pay due attention to such symptoms, considering them to be a common cold.

It should be remembered that with this type of disease, the cough does not go away for a very long time; it can last up to 14 days or more. You need to monitor your condition and if it does not go away within 3 weeks, then this means that the disease has accepted a sluggish ongoing process. This may indicate a weak functioning of the immune system and the great likelihood of the disease becoming chronic.

The acute form of the disease can be cured without much effort; this happens if the patient consults a specialist in a timely manner. However, there are times when the disease provokes the formation of an inflammatory process in the lungs.

But it should be remembered that a correct diagnosis and timely treatment will not allow complications of various types to arise.

Important! When acute bronchitis occurs, body temperature can rise to 40 degrees and last for a week. It goes away after 10 days. Often, with this type of bronchitis, painful sensations occur in the throat. The disease progresses favorably; in some cases, pneumonia may occur.

If an illness occurs, you should go home and stay warm.

• To liquefy and relieve sputum waste, it is necessary to take as many infusions and decoctions of herbal composition as possible.
• To lower the temperature in case of general discomfort, you need to drink aspirin or paracetamol tablets (the dosage will be prescribed by your doctor).
• To maintain humidity in the apartment, you can use humidifiers.
• Breathe warm air and drink plenty of hot drinks.
• Go to the bathhouse and (if you don’t have a fever) take a steam bath - this will help reduce coughing attacks.
• Take medications that help with sputum removal (sold in pharmacies without a prescription), they improve sputum removal.
• Stop taking antitussive drugs, they interfere with normal sputum discharge.

Attention! In case of repeated manifestations of attacks of the disease, a specialist examination will be required, this is explained by the fact that this may be characteristic features chronic bronchitis, which causes irreversible damage in the lung area.

When you contact a specialist, he can prescribe a medical appointment. bronchial dilators. After inhalations, relief occurs almost immediately. In case of bacterial infections, they are prescribed.

• If suspicion arises, an x-ray of the chest area is prescribed.
• Depending on the type and severity of the disease, hospitalization may be required.
• If treatment takes place at home, the healing period will require a period of 7 to 10 days.
• The diagnosis of acute bronchitis is usually based on the main symptoms. If necessary, you may need to take sputum samples for testing.
• Treatment procedures occur independently and last, on average, a week. Relief of symptoms refers to the results of the treatment.
• Antibiotics are not prescribed until the nature of the disease is identified. It should be remembered that these medications are prescribed as a precaution, as a secondary infection. This is used for bronchial asthma, heart disease and other chronic ailments.

Important for patients! During the period of illness, individual dishes should be used for the sick person. To prevent transmission of infection to others, cover your face with your hand when coughing.

To avoid the development of the disease, you should follow some tips:

• Quit smoking as soon as possible.
• Try to avoid contact with people who have a cold or acute bronchitis.
• When working with various chemicals or other irritating substances, be sure to wear protective gloves and a mask.
• If the patient has ailments such as bronchial asthma or allergies, methods of prevention should be discussed with your doctor.

Acute bronchitis is an acute inflammation of the bronchial mucosa, characterized by an increase above the norm in the volume of bronchial secretion, leading to sputum production and coughing, and if the small bronchi are affected, to shortness of breath.

Acute bronchitis is one of the most common respiratory diseases. According to special studies of the morbidity of the urban population in 1969-1971, timed to coincide with the 1970 USSR population census, the proportion of acute bronchitis and bronchiolitis in the group of nonspecific lung diseases was 30.3%. According to appeal materials, the incidence rate ranged from 3.2 to 24.9%. In the city of Minsk and the cities of Estonia, the maximum incidence rate was registered - 30.2-40.0%, with an average rate of 15.9 per 1000 population, almost the same for men and women (15.7 and 16.1, respectively). %O). The dynamics of the indicator with increasing age were mostly absent; only in D observations there was a certain tendency towards a slow increase in the incidence rate, reaching a maximum (15.7-25.2%) in the age range of 40-59 years, with a subsequent slight decrease [Romensky A. A. et al. - In the book: Prevalence and outcomes of NLD, 1977]. According to the generalized data of B. E. Votchal et al. (1974) (cited by A. N. Kokosov, 1976), acute bronchitis accounted for 1.5% of all diseases and 34.5% of respiratory diseases. The incidence of acute bronchitis at a heavy engineering enterprise, according to the All-Russian Research Institute of Pulmonology [O. V. Korovina et al., 1978], in different years ranged from 0.55 to 2.08 per 100 workers, and its level was influenced by epidemic outbreaks of influenza and other acute respiratory infections, weather factors, age, and working conditions.

B. E. Votchal et al. (1972) showed that acute bronchitis with temporary disability accounts for 20-38% of all diseases of the bronchi and lungs. But a significant portion of patients (50.8%) did not go to doctors, i.e., they remained able to work. In the UK, about 50% of all lost working time is associated with acute respiratory tract infection (acute tracheitis, acute bronchitis), in most cases of a viral nature.

What provokes / Causes of Acute bronchitis:

A number of factors predispose to acute bronchitis, which to one degree or another reduce the general and local resistance of the body, among which the main ones are: 1) climatic and weather factors and working conditions, in particular hypothermia and dampness; 2) smoking tobacco; 3) abuse of strong alcoholic beverages; 4) focal infection of the nasopharynx; 5) violation of nasal breathing; 6) congestive changes in the lungs with heart failure, etc.

Among etiological factors acute bronchitis can be distinguished as follows: 1) physical (excessively dry, hot or cold air); 2) chemical (various types of chemical compounds such as acids and alkalis, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, silicon, etc.); 3) infectious (viruses, bacteria and other microorganisms); 4) allergic (organic dust, pollen, etc.).

Pathogenesis (what happens?) during Acute bronchitis:

Physical and chemical hazards, irritating the bronchial mucosa, reduce local resistance and predispose to the development of an inflammatory process of an infectious nature. Of the viruses that cause acute respiratory diseases, the PC virus plays the greatest role in the etiology of acute bronchitis. The infectious process caused by it in most cases is accompanied by damage to the bronchial tree, while with other acute respiratory infections the frequency of bronchitis seems to be much lower. Primary bacterial bronchitis appears to be much less common than viral and viral-bacterial bronchitis. According to T. A. Veselova and others. Sat. VIIIP - Etiol. and pathog. infectious process, etc., 1982], influenza and other viruses were detected in 70% of patients with acute bronchitis, M. pneumoniae in 28%. In 60% of cases, pneumococci were cultured, and in 16%, hemophilus influenzae was cultured. In addition to the causative agents of acute respiratory infections, the causative agents of some other acute diseases may also be important in the etiology of acute bronchitis. infectious processes- measles, whooping cough, typhoparatyphoid group, etc. In this case, acute bronchitis is a manifestation of the corresponding disease or its complication.

Acute allergic bronchitis, which can be consideredwat as a manifestation of asthma, they are found in individuals with a congenital predisposition to allergic reactions.

The inflammatory process in acute bronchitis begins, as a rule, with damage to the nasopharynx, further spreading to the underlying respiratory tract - larynx, trachea, bronchi, bronchioles. Once the virus enters the respiratory tract, it penetrates into epithelial cells, disrupting metabolic processes in them, which leads to cell death. The number of destroyed epithelial cells is usually proportional to the pathogenicity of the virus. The death and desquamation of damaged epithelium opens the way into the tissues of a bacterial infection - most often pneumococcus and hemophilus influenzae, less often - staphylococcus. Bacterial flora usually joins the viral infection of the respiratory tract from the 2-3rd day of illness. This determines the further course of the resulting inflammation, which is facilitated by changes in blood vessels (impaired microcirculation, microthrombosis) and nerve cells (impaired trophism).

A protracted course of acute bronchitis is more often observed when it is of a viral-bacterial nature. It is also facilitated by impaired bronchial obstruction as a result of previous damage to the bronchi. Complications of bronchitis (acute pneumonia, etc.) are usually caused by a bacterial infection (pneumococcus, hemolytic streptococcus, Staphylococcus aureus, etc.).

Pathological anatomy. There is practically no information about the pathological anatomy of acute bronchitis. Ideas about the effect of respiratory viruses on the epithelium of the respiratory tract are based on the study of scrapings of the mucous membrane, biopsy material and exfoliative cytology, as well as on data from a few experimental studies on animals, in particular on ferrets. Respiratory viruses cause focal or generalized degeneration and desquamation of columnar epithelial cells in the first three days of the disease. Along with the death of the most specialized epithelium, there is an increase in the number of goblet cells. If only the superficial layers of the mucosa are damaged, epithelial regeneration occurs over the next 2 weeks. A deeper lesion is characterized by degeneration of the submucosal layer. Bacterial infection is manifested by infiltration of the submucosal layer with polymorphonuclear neutrophils and lymphocytes. When exposed allergic factors the picture of vasomotor edema of the mucous membrane prevails, and eosinophils predominate in the bronchial washings. Complete restoration of the epithelial cover in uncomplicated cases of acute bronchitis occurs, apparently, within a month. In severe cases, the phenomena of necrosis of the mucous membrane predominate. The death of the surface layer of the epithelium can be complicated by infection with pyogenic staphylococcus, then a combination of inflammation and necrosis occurs. Aspiration of infected material into the alveoli leads to the development of staphylococcal pneumonia, often accompanied by abscess formation.

Symptoms of Acute bronchitis:

By etiology acute bronchitis should be distinguished: 1) of infectious origin: a) viral, b) bacterial, c) viral-bacterial; 2) caused by physical and chemical hazards; 3) mixed (for example, a combination of physical, chemical factors and infections); 4) unspecified nature.

By pathogenesis One can distinguish so-called primary bronchitis, which is an independent disease, and secondary bronchitis, which complicates other pathological processes. Almost all acute bronchitis, which can be considered as an independent nosological form, is diffuse.

By level of damage acute bronchitis can be divided into: 1) tracheobronchitis, b) bronchitis with primary damage to the medium-sized bronchi and c) bronchiolitis.

By the nature of the inflammatory process Acute bronchitis is divided into catarrhal and purulent.

By functional features acute bronchitis should be divided into non-obstructive (with a relatively good prognosis) and obstructive, usually accompanied by the involvement of small bronchi and bronchioles in the inflammatory process, with a relatively unfavorable clinical prognosis. And finally, by flow options: 1) acute

(usually no more than 2 weeks); 2) prolonged (up to a month or more); O) recurrent (up to 3 or more times per year).

Acute lesions of small bronchi, which, as a rule, are obstructive in nature, are more severe and unfavorable. Most acute bronchi are catarrhal in nature, purulent forms are rare, usually associated with streptococcal infection in combination with viruses (viral-streptococcal association). According to B.E. Votchal and L.V. Shulgin (1970), in acute bronchitis, bronchial obstruction occurs in 45.5% of patients, and in 1U.4% it persists for a year after apparent recovery. With persisting bronchial obstruction Acute bronchitis, according to these authors, more often becomes chronic.

Clinic. The clinical picture of acute bronchitis is determined by the features etiological factor, the nature, severity and prevalence of damage to the mucous membrane of the bronchial tree, the level of damage, the severity of intoxication and respiratory failure, the rate of development of the disease.

Acute tracheobronchitis can develop within a few hours, but it can also increase gradually over several days. In the most typical cases, when the cause of acute bronchitis is an infection, the symptoms of acute respiratory infections precede the manifestation of acute bronchitis, less often they develop simultaneously. General disturbances in well-being are typical: malaise, weakness, chills, fever. At the same time, there may be other manifestations of acute respiratory infections from the upper respiratory tract - runny nose, sore throat when swallowing, hoarseness. Characterized by a peculiar unpleasant sensation in the sternum and between the shoulder blades, sometimes turning into pain.

The main and most persistent symptom of acute bronchitis is a cough - initially dry. Cough appears at the very beginning of the disease, persists throughout the entire illness and remains the last manifestation of the disease in convalescents. With simultaneous damage to the larynx, the cough takes on a peculiar barking tone. Cough during bronchitis occurs due to irritation or inflammation of the mucous membrane of the trachea and large bronchi due to irritation of sensitive nerve endings. Paroxysms of cough usually end with the separation of scanty mucous sputum. Often there is pain in the upper part abdominal wall, as well as in the lower parts of the chest, corresponding to the place of attachment of the diaphragm, due to overstrain of the corresponding muscles during coughing attacks. After a few days of illness, the cough becomes softer and more moist, as sputum of a mucous or mucous-hyoic nature is released more regularly. The appearance of (shortness of breath, as a rule, indicates an accessory, associated with the involvement of small bronchi in the disease. In this sense, the presence of cough and sputum in one case and shortness of breath in another may indicate the level of damage to the bronchial tree, i.e., a predominant damage to large or small bronchi or their combination.

Palpation, percussion, as well as examination of the chest, provide little diagnostic information. Palpation may reveal some pain in the intercostal spaces and above the projection of the diaphragm attachment! Typical "shade" percussion sound during percussion in cases of damage to the distal bronchi and bronchioles, it indicates acute overdistension of the lungs and correlates with other signs of severe obstruction. Examination of the chest in these cases reveals pronounced external manifestations of severe pulmonary insufficiency (participation intercostal muscles in the act of breathing, etc.). Auscultatory changes in cases of damage to large bronchi may not be detected. In other cases, hard breathing and dry wheezing, often scattered, are heard. The timbre of wheezing usually depends on the level of damage to the bronchi: the more distal the level of damage, the higher the timbre of wheezing. When liquid secretion appears in the bronchi, moist (usually fine bubbling) rales may also be heard. Unlike those in acute pneumonia, they are less sonorous, not so local, and disappear after vigorous coughing.

Changes from other organs and systems in acute bronchitis, they are usually absent or reflect the degree of general viral-bacterial and other intoxication. The same should be said about the blood picture. Its changes (for example, neutrophilic leukocytosis, increased ESR) may indicate a complication of acute bronchitis with pneumonia.

X-ray changes in acute bronchitis they are usually absent. With a viral infection, expansion and blurring of the pattern of the roots of the lungs may be detected due to the reaction of the interstitial tissue in this area to the infection. In the case of prolonged acute bronchitis, repeated X-ray examination has great value For timely diagnosis associated pneumonia.

Features of the clinical picture allergic bronchialhit are the absence of well-known signs of inflammation (mucous and purulent sputum, eutrophilic leukocytosis, band shift in the leukocyte formula, increased ESR, etc.), the etiological connection of the disease mainly with non-infectious factors, tendency to allergic reactions, other manifestations of allergies, including laboratory tests (eosinophilia of blood and sputum, etc.), effect (ex juvantibus) of antiallergic drugs.

Bronchiolitis usually it is part of a severe lesion of the entire bronchial tree, less often it develops independently.

Acute bronchiolitis is characterized by severe shortness of breath, which increases sharply with little physical effort, a painful cough with scanty mucous sputum, and chest pain associated with overstrain of the respiratory muscles. Puffiness of the face, cyanosis of the ears, nose, fingers, and toes are noted. Breathing is intense, with the participation of auxiliary muscles. The chest seems to be fixed in the position of a deep breath, with the shoulder girdle raised. Percussion tone with a tympaiic tint. The lower border of the lungs is lowered, the mobility of the diaphragm is limited. During auscultation, breathing is often weakened; in the lower parts, fine bubbling rales, silent, and not much different in character from crepitants, can be heard. A decrease in the sonority of respiratory sounds is usually accompanied by an increase in clinical manifestations respiratory failure and prognostically unfavorable. X-ray the picture is determined acute bloating lungs, there may be an increase in the pulmonary pattern. For complications of bronchiolitis small focal pneumonia The radiological picture is similar to miliary pulmonary tuberculosis. The course of bronchiolitis is long (5-6 weeks) and severe, the prognosis is often unfavorable, especially in the elderly.

Treatment of Acute bronchitis:

Patients with acute bronchitis with an increase in body temperature are subject to release from work, and weakened elderly patients with emphysema and (or) concomitant cardiovascular pathology are subject to release from work even with normal temperature bodies. The latter also applies to those with pronounced catarrhal symptoms from the upper respiratory tract, to those working in the open air, in hot shops, in children's institutions, catering, educational institutions, hospital institutions.

In case of severe intoxication, concomitant (pulmonary and cardiovascular) pathology and the threat of complications with acute pneumonia, hospitalization of the patient is advisable. Important therapeutic measure when body temperature rises, bed rest is recommended. Smoking tobacco during illness is strictly prohibited.

Recommended drinking plenty of fluids warm liquid: hot tea with lemon, honey, raspberry jam, linden tea. colors, from dry raspberries, heated alkaline mineral waters (Borjomi, Smirnovskaya, Slavyapovskaya, etc.), diaphoretic and breast training. The following recipe may be recommended: Fructus Rubi idaei, Folii Gariarae aa 20.0, Herbae Origani vulgaris 20.0 or FJorum Tiliae, Fructus Rubi idaei aa 50.0. MDS - brew 2 tablespoons of the mixture with two glasses of boiling water, boil in a closed vessel for 5-10 minutes, strain and drink the infusion hot, one glass at a time [Dubiley V.V. et al., 1980]. These measures, as a rule, cause profuse sweating, reduce elevated body temperature, and improve general health. Mustard plasters on the sternum area usually reduce discomfort in the tracheal area. Steam inhalations are shown.

Drug treatment of acute bronchitis is currently mainly symptomatic, with the use of antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs: acetylsalicylic acid(0.5 g), methindol (0.025 g), pyramnnal (amidopyrine 0.25 g, phenobarbital 0.02 g, caffeine 0.03 g), pircofen (amidopyrine and phenacetin each 0.25 g, caffeine 0.05 g ), pyramein (amidopyrine 0.3 g, caffeine 0.03 g), citramon, etc., usually 1 tablet three times a day. When the nasopharynx and larynx are simultaneously affected, they are useful aerosol preparations: camphomene, kameton and ingalipt 3-4 times a day. These combined preparations contain norsulfazole, streptocide, camphor, menthol, etc., and have an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and local anesthetic effect. It is necessary to take vitamins, primarily C (0.1-0.3 and 0.5 g) and A (3 mg each) 3 times a day.

If the etiological factor is suspected viral infection, treatment is carried out in accordance with the principles outlined.

If there is no effect from symptomatic therapy, and purulent sputum appears, antibacterial drugs (tetracyclines, semisynthetic penicillins, biseptol, etc.) should be included to influence the bacterial microflora. This is also a measure to prevent pneumonia. When prescribing antibiotics, you need to increase the dose of administered vitamin C to the optimal dose (1 mg for every 100 thousand units of antibiotic). In case of a protracted course of the inflammatory process, which is not amenable to conventional antibacterial therapy, it is recommended to combine it with aerosol administration (via an ultrasonic inhaler) of prodigiosan: 4-5 inhalations 1-2 times a week, 1 mg of the drug per inhalation . In this regard, it is also advisable to use pyrogenal and some other biogenic drugs that stimulate nonspecific resistance, regeneration processes, etc.

At obstructive syndrome bronchodilators are prescribed different mechanism actions: sympathomimetics, anticholinergics and myotropic antispasmodics, primarily the theophylline group. It is advisable to prescribe combined drugs - theophedrine, antasman, etc. If signs of obstruction persist, there are manifestations of allergies, corticosteroid installations are prescribed: hydrocortisone, etc. 25-50 mg per day, becotide (beclomethasone), or short, for 5-7 days, a course of corticosteroids (usually prednisolone 15-20 mg per day). If atopic allergic factors prevail, it is advisable to prescribe fenkarol and conduct a course of intal or zaditen (within a month).

At prolonged course of bronchitis For the purposes of medical rehabilitation, it is advisable to use alkaline heat-moist inhalations with sea or mineral water (such as Borjomi, Essentuki). In order to normalize the body's reactivity, general strengthening and hardening effects, general irradiation with ultraviolet rays, calcium electrophoresis on the chest, and ion therapy with negative air ions are also recommended. Functional rehabilitation of convalescents is facilitated by staying in a suburban rehabilitation department or a specialized department of a climatic sanatorium ( local sanatoriums, South Bank Crimea, etc.). An important place in the rehabilitation system is given to special methods of physical therapy (sound and breathing exercises, circuit training).

Prevention of Acute bronchitis:

Prevention of acute bronchitis is fundamentally linked to the prevention of viral infections. In addition, of a certain importance in the prevention of acute bronchitis is the elimination of various types of nonspecific irritations of the mucous membrane of the bronchial tree, which contribute to the development and progression of the inflammatory process (dust and gas contamination of industrial premises, cooling and hypothermia, overheating, rapid change of -high temperatures, tobacco smoking, alcohol abuse, etc.). Timely sanitation of foci of infection, primarily in the nasopharyngeal area (purulent ennuit, etc.), and elimination of difficulties in nasal breathing (elimination of polyps, deviated nasal septum, etc.) are also important. Regular hardening (air and sun baths, water procedures, walking barefoot), which is preferably started in the summer season.

Which doctors should you contact if you have Acute bronchitis:

Pulmonologist

Therapist

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Other diseases from the group Respiratory diseases:

Agenesis and Aplasia

Actinomycosis

Alveococcosis

Alveolar proteinosis of the lungs

Amoebiasis

Arterial pulmonary hypertension

Ascariasis

Aspergillosis

Gasoline pneumonia

Blastomycosis North American

Bronchial asthma

Bronchial asthma in a child

Bronchial fistulas

Bronchogenic cysts of the lung

Bronchiectasis

Congenital lobar emphysema

Hamartoma

Hydrothorax

Histoplasmosis

Wegener's granulomatosis

Humoral forms of immunological deficiency

Accessory lung

Echinococcosis

Idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis

Idiopathic fibrosing alveolitis

Infiltrative pulmonary tuberculosis

Cavernous pulmonary tuberculosis

Candidiasis

Pulmonary candidiasis (pulmonary candidiasis)

Cystic Hypoplasia

Coccidioidosis

Combined forms of immunological deficiency

Coniotuberculosis

Cryptococcosis

Laryngitis

Pulmonary eosinophilic infiltrate

Leiomyomatosis

Cystic fibrosis

Mucorosis

Nocardiosis (atypical actinomycosis)

Reversed lung position

osteoplastic tracheobronchopathy

Acute pneumonia

Acute respiratory diseases

Acute abscess and gangrene of the lungs

Acute miliary pulmonary tuberculosis

Acute nasopharyngitis (runny nose)

Acute obstructive laryngitis (croup)

Acute tonsillitis (tonsillitis)

Focal pulmonary tuberculosis

Acute bronchitis is an inflammatory process of the airways, which occurs due to various reasons. These can be inspection pathogens, various viruses, chemical, physical or allergic factors.

Types of acute bronchitis

Depending on the mechanism of development of inflammation, the following types of this disease are distinguished:

• primary – an independent process of inflammation in the bronchi;
• secondary – a complication of another existing pathology.

It should be noted that acute bronchitis of the primary type is very rare and develops as complications of other infections.

According to the level of damage, the following are distinguished:

• bronchitis of the lower respiratory tract (tracheobronchitis, bronchiolitis and bronchitis affecting the medium-sized bronchi);
• extensive bronchitis;
• segmental bronchitis.

Based on the nature of the mucus produced, bronchitis can be:

• slimy;
• purulent;
• catarrhal;
• mixed.

Causes of acute bronchitis

Depending on the factor that caused the disease, acute bronchitis can be infectious, non-infectious, or of unknown origin. You can often find mixed forms diseases. The main mechanism of occurrence and development of acute bronchitis is infection. The most common viruses: influenza viruses, acute respiratory viral infections, bacteria such as chlamydia, pneumococcus, staphylococcus, mycoplasma.

Pathogens enter the bronchi in several ways: hematogenous, airborne, and lymphogenous. The causes of acute bronchitis are infectious and non-infectious factors. The cause of non-infectious bronchitis may well be physical, chemical factors(smoke, dust, inhalation toxic substances, hot air). In addition, acute bronchitis can develop in combination with an infection of physicochemical factors. People who are genetically prone to allergies may develop acute allergic bronchitis as a result long acting a specific allergen.

Acute bronchitis is a complication due to infection by a virus or bacteria of the upper respiratory tract (nasopharynx, tonsils, larynx, trachea). Factors that contribute to the occurrence of acute bronchitis: harmful working conditions, frequent hypothermia, bad habits, diet that contains few vitamins and microelements, a weakened immune system. Old people and children are most susceptible to acute bronchitis. Autumn-spring seasonality is also observed.

Hypothermia of the body, the influence of temperature fluctuations, and a long period of exposure to high humidity conditions play a significant role in the occurrence of the disease; Because of this, the incidence of the disease increases in spring and autumn.

TO this disease persons who have foci of infection in the nasopharynx (rhinitis, sinusitis, sinusitis) are predisposed. Bronchitis often appears with such infectious diseases such as influenza, measles, whooping cough, acute respiratory infections, etc. The occurrence of acute bronchitis is facilitated by alcohol consumption, smoking, and weakening of the whole body after chronic diseases. There are cases when acute bronchitis develops due to the irritating effect of essential oils, gases, and dust.

Symptoms of the disease

On the second or third day of the disease, sputum begins to come out when you cough, and the cough becomes less painful. During prolonged coughing attacks, symptoms of acute bronchitis such as headache and dizziness are possible. Cough has protective function, since it can promote self-cleaning of phlegm from the bronchi. In the bronchi during bronchitis, there is a gradual accumulation of sputum; it irritates the mucous membrane of the larynx, trachea, bronchi, causing a strong inhalation with further convulsive exhalation. Then it happens sharp increase air pressure in the bronchi, and opening of the glottis.

Symptoms of acute bronchitis are not standard for all cases and may vary depending on:

• causes of the disease;
• his character;
• prevalence, severity of inflammation;
• level of bronchial damage.

The first signs of acute bronchitis: symptoms of general intoxication, possible damage to both the upper and lower respiratory tract. Symptoms for secondary acute bronchitis: runny nose, sore throat, nasal congestion, conjunctivitis, hoarseness. After the appearance of such symptoms, signs of general intoxication appear, such as general weakness, headache, chills, increased sweating, increased body temperature, pain in muscles and joints.

The main symptom of acute inflammation of the bronchi is a dry hacking cough, often accompanied by burning pain behind the sternum, in the abdominal muscles and lower parts of the chest. In acute bronchitis, cough is accompanied by the discharge of sputum, which changes in character and consistency depending on the stage of the disease. Initially, the sputum is viscous, released in small quantities, gradually thins out, increases in quantity and has a serous-purulent character. Acute allergic bronchitis is manifested by a paroxysmal cough, which is caused by inhalation of an allergen, resulting in the release of transparent glassy sputum.

For acute bronchitis that occurs after inhalation toxic substances, cough is often accompanied by laryngospasm, suffocation and a feeling of tightness in the chest. As a result of irregular or prolonged acute bronchitis, a complication in the form of bronchiolitis may occur. In such a situation, the patient’s condition deteriorates very sharply. To the previously manifested symptoms, shortness of breath, chills with tachycardia, fever and decreased blood pressure are added. Such symptoms accompany an excited state nervous system, followed by drowsiness and lethargy, resulting in skin become pale in color, limbs acquire a bluish color.

Clinical picture of bronchitis

The disease can be divided into three phases:

• height - increase in clinical signs (phase in the form of a dry cough);
• intoxication (sputum expectoration phase);
• resolution - restoration of the function of the airways.

Depending on the level of body resistance, the degree of activity of microorganisms that caused acute bronchitis, the disease occurs in mild, moderate, and severe degrees.

The diagnosis of acute bronchitis is based on the described symptoms, as well as auscultatory data at the time of the absence of radiological changes in the lungs. As a result of this, performing a chest x-ray, which is prescribed by a doctor in such cases, makes it possible to exclude other, more serious illnesses in the form of pneumonia (pneumonia), tuberculosis, etc. According to an objective examination of the patient, some expansion of the roots of the lungs can be determined, and a pulmonary sound above the lungs. On auscultation, vesicular breathing with immediate hard prolonged exhalation, whistling, buzzing wheezes are heard. After 2-3 days of illness, moist medium-bubbling rales may appear, most often in large bronchi. The patient's condition improves with the onset of sputum production.

Acute symptoms begin to disappear by the end of the 1st week of the disease, but the cough may persist for another 10-14 days. The functions of the airways and bronchial mucosa are completely restored by the end of the 2nd week.

According to data laboratory examination The patient may pay attention to the detection of neutrophilic leukocytosis in the blood and an increase in ESR.

Diagnosis of acute bronchitis

Only a doctor, therapist or pulmonologist can diagnose bronchitis, since in the first days the disease can easily be mistaken for common cold. In order to clarify the diagnosis, in addition to an objective examination, as well as listening to the bronchi with a stethoscope, the following instrumental, laboratory methods may be required additional examination, How general analysis blood, urine, immunological and biochemical blood tests, as well as chest radiography, spirometry, bronchoscopy, peak flowmetry, sputum culture for microflora, as well as sensitivity to antibiotics. Only with all the results of additional studies is it possible to make a diagnosis and determine adequate treatment. It is necessary to pay attention to the fact that self-medication can cause irreparable harm to the health of the entire body.

Treatment of bronchitis

Treatment of acute bronchitis must necessarily be comprehensive, aimed at persistently fighting the infection, restoring bronchial patency, and removing harmful factors. Another very important aspect how to treat acute bronchitis, it is mandatory to carry out a full course of treatment, which can prevent the transition to chronic forms. In order to suppress the activity of microbial agents, antibiotics, sulfonamides or their combination with vitamins A, C and B are used.

The use of antibiotics does not completely eliminate the phenomenon of bronchospasm or restore bronchial patency. In this regard, if necessary, medications that dilate the bronchi are prescribed. A good effect, especially in the first days of the disease, is provided by mustard plasters, cupping, and hot foot baths. Alkaline inhalations, frequent drinking of hot tea, inhaling steam, hot milk with Borjomi or soda help soften the cough.

It is more expedient to use medicinal herbs or preparations that have an expectorant, diaphoretic, and antipyretic effect, use vitamin preparations. For a dry and painful cough, antitussive drugs can be used after a doctor's prescription. At the onset of the disease, bed rest is prescribed. Such patients are not hospitalized; the doctor provides treatment at home. Required condition successful treatment diseases: patient’s cessation of smoking. As you recover, physical therapy, massage, and restorative therapy are used. When conducting complex treatment the prognosis of the disease is favorable; Complications may also develop: transition to chronic forms, to pneumonia.

Prevention of the disease consists of eliminating harmful factors such as humidity, hypothermia, temperature changes, stopping smoking, and eliminating occupational hazards.

Drug treatment of acute bronchitis

Drug treatment involves the use of drugs from several pharmacological groups. The basis for successful treatment of inflammation is a properly selected antibiotic. Antibiotic therapy is carried out with the following drugs:

• penicillins (augmentin, amoxil, ospamox, amoxiclav);
• macrolides (azithromycin, macropen);
• cephalosporins (ceftriaxone, cefix, cefazolin, cifadox);
• fluoroquinolones (norfloxacin, levofloxacin).

Depending on the severity of the disease and the age of the patient, antibiotics are prescribed in the form of syrups, tablets, suspensions, intramuscular, and intravenous injections. The dose of the drug and the duration of treatment are determined by the doctor, but the course of antibiotic therapy lasts on average 7-10 days. It is recommended to continue taking the drug after the symptoms disappear.

Taking into account the fact that during the treatment of bronchitis a long course of antibiotic therapy is used, parallel intake of probiotics (lactovit, bifiform, linex) will be required. These drugs will restore intestinal microflora and good health. We must not forget about hepatoprotectors (Darsil, Karsil), which support and restore liver cells, which suffer from a long course of drug treatment.

Treatment with traditional medicine

Here are some tips for treating bronchitis using traditional methods.
You need to take 2 parts each of marshmallow root, chamomile and sweet clover herb (or wild rosemary) and mix. Pour 2 tablespoons of the resulting mixture into one glass of boiling water, then leave in a water bath for 30 minutes. Take 1 tablespoon of this remedy in case of poor sputum separation.

Mix part coltsfoot, 1 part plantain, 3 parts licorice root and 2 parts tricolor violet herb. Pour 2 tablespoons of this mixture with boiling water (1 cup). Next, infuse in a water bath for 30 minutes, then cool and strain.
Next, take 4 parts of marshmallow root, 2 parts of licorice root, 2 parts of coltsfoot, 1 part of dill fruit. In 2 doses: first of all, infuse 4 g of marshmallow root in 100 ml of cold water for an hour, then infuse the rest of the mixture in 100 ml of boiling water in a water bath for an hour. Drain the extracts. Take warm, a quarter cup at a time.

Mix two parts coltsfoot, 2 parts plantain leaf, 2 parts primrose flowers and 3 parts horsetail herb.
2 tablespoons of the resulting mixture are poured into a glass of boiling water. You need to leave for 30 minutes in a water bath, then cool and strain. You need to take 1/3-1/4 cup warm in the morning and evening after meals.

Mix two parts coltsfoot, 2 parts primrose flowers, 1 part anise, 1 part mint, 2 parts plantain. Cooking method this tool, as in the previous description. Use as an expectorant and anti-inflammatory after meals, half a glass 3-4 times a day.

A teaspoon of Icelandic moss is infused in a cup of boiling water, like ordinary tea. The patient will need to drink one cup of this tincture in the evening, just before bed. You need to drink it hot, just without burning yourself. Since this remedy is bitter, it is quite possible to add honey.

Let's consider the Siberian folk remedy, which effectively helps against bronchitis and cough. You will need to grate the black radish and squeeze the juice through cheesecloth, add liquid honey, drink 2 tablespoons both before meals and before bed in the evenings.

Mix thoroughly two tablespoons of butter, 2 yolks, a teaspoon of flour, 2 teaspoons of honey. Take this mixture when coughing before meals 4-5 times a day.

The remedy presented below has been used for a long time in Russia. Consists of 1300 g of honey (linden), 1 cup of finely chopped aloe leaves, 150 g of birch buds, 200 g of olive oil and 50 g of linden blossom. Before direct preparation, you will need aloe leaves, washed with boiled water, and placed in a cold and dark place for 10 days. Then melt the honey and put aloe leaves into it, after crushing them. The mixture must be thoroughly steamed. Apart from this, brew in 2 glasses of water birch buds and linden decoction, boil everything for 1-2 minutes. Pour the strained and squeezed broth into the cooled honey. Stir, pour into 2 bottles, adding to each olive oil. Only need to be stored in a cool place. You will need to shake well before use. Take 3 times a tablespoon.

Bran is used for bronchitis and loss of voice. You will need to boil 1.8 liters of water, add 400 g of any bran. Boil again and simmer for 10 minutes. You will need to sweeten using burnt sugar. This decoction should be drunk all day instead of tea, coffee and other liquids, but should be drunk very hot. Treatment can be carried out using both medicinal and food plants. Hot milk with figs is recommended for young children. severe cough as a very healthy and tasty remedy.

A salad of radish and carrots, seasoned with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and 2 tablespoons of sour cream, works well.

A widely used dessert is made from lemon, minced with the peel and mixed with honey, pureed with apple.

Mashed potatoes, prepared with a huge amount of milk, helps relieve bronchospasm.

Oatmeal jelly with milk or sour cream - strong remedy for the treatment of bronchitis.

Cranberry jelly with milk or sour cream, whipped with sugar, will give the patient the necessary amount of vitamin C, and will not harm in case of high acidity.

Grape juice, prepared directly at home, is useful for bronchial diseases.

Turnip is an excellent expectorant.

Regarding drug therapy, then mucaltin (1-2 tablets before meals 2-3 times), bisolvone or bromhexine (1-2 tablets per day 2-3 times), broncholitin (1 tablespoon per day 3-4 times) has a good expectorant effect times).

Antibiotics should be used only for severe bronchitis. Treatment of acute bronchitis with antibiotics: erythromycin (4 times a day, 0.5 g), ampicillin (4 times a day, 0.5 g); it is possible to use Biseptol-480 (2 tablets, 2 times a day).

Home physiotherapy in the form of mustard plasters on the chest, back, circular cupping, paraffin or mud applications is also advisable.

Traditional medicine recipes can effectively alleviate the patient’s condition and help him recover faster. Consuming such an alkaline mineral water, like “Borjomi”, “Essentuki No. 4”, “Polyana Kvasova”, possibly as an inhalation. You can also cook warm milk by adding alkaline water. (3:1). No less effective is the use of cough syrup from red viburnum berries and sugar.

A suffocating cough attack can be overcome by warm boiled milk with the addition of figs. To prepare it, take 1 glass of milk, as well as 1-2 figs. After the milk boils, the washed figs are placed in it and boiled for 3-5 minutes. After the milk has cooled, you need to drink this cocktail and lie down in a warm bed.

Physiotherapy and exercise therapy

For a quick recovery, it is more advisable to combine drug therapy with effective physiotherapeutic procedures, as well as a complex of exercise therapy.

Helps cure cough quickly and effectively steam inhalations with infusions of herbs and essential oils. Inhalation of expectorants or Borjomi mineral water is especially effective for thinning mucus.

If the body temperature does not exceed 37 degrees, it is recommended to carry out warming thermal procedures on the chest area. Thus, in a hospital, applications of paraffin or ozokerite are prescribed; at home, they can be replaced with mustard plasters or potato cakes. These warming procedures improve blood circulation, relieve inflammation and speed up recovery.

UHF, ultrasound - simple, effective physiotherapeutic procedures that affect areas respiratory system, which reduces inflammation, improves blood circulation and restores damaged tissue.

If the patient is directly in hospital treatment, then professionals will take care of his health. And if acute bronchitis is treated at home, then to develop and restore the respiratory system, it is possible to perform a massage (lightly tapping on the back in the bronchi area, inflating balloons or blowing air into a glass of water through a straw). Such childish and funny procedures are a worthy replacement for medical procedures.

Prevention of acute bronchitis

Acute bronchitis is better to prevent than to treat later. To do this, it is recommended to perform a number of simple procedures: follow sanitary and hygienic rules, give up bad habits, follow a daily routine, work, rest, eat a fortified and balanced diet, strengthen immune system, avoid hypothermia, harden up, lead an active lifestyle, play sports.

Of course, acute bronchitis is not a death sentence, but only an inflammation of the respiratory system, which can be quickly and well treated, but only under the supervision of a qualified doctor. If the first symptoms occur, you should not hesitate; you should immediately go to the hospital to receive effective medical care.