Acute Bronchitis

Acute bronchitis is often caused by viruses that infect bronchial epithelium, resulting in inflammation and increased mucus secretion. Cough, a common symptom of acute bronchitis, develops in an attempt to expel the excess mucus from the lungs. Other common symptoms include sore throat, runny nose and congestion (coryza), low-grade fever, pleurisy, malaise, and phlegm.
It usually develops during the course of a respiratory infection such as the common cold. About 90% of cases of acute bronchitis is caused by viruses including rhinovirus, adenovirus, and influenza. Bacteria, including Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydophila pneumoniae and Bordetella pertussis, account for about 10% of cases
Treatment for acute bronchitis is primarily symptomatic. Anti-inflammatory drugs may be used to treat fever and sore throat. Decongestants may be useful in patients with nasal congestion and expectorants may be used to loosen phlegm and mucus. Even without treatment, the majority of cases of acute bronchitis quickly resolves
Only about 5.10% of cases of bronchitis are caused by a bacterial infection. Most cases of bronchitis is caused by viral infection and are limited and resolves in a few weeks. Since most cases of acute bronchitis is caused by viruses, antibiotics should not be used provided that they are only effective against bacteria. Antibiotics in patients without bacterial infections promotes the development of antibiotic resistant bacteria, which can lead to increased morbidity and mortality. However, even in cases of viral bronchitis, antibiotics may be shown in some patients to prevent the occurrence of secondary bacterial infections.
Treatment
For patients with acute bronchitis the doctor may recommend rest, enough fluids, and aspirin (for adults) or acetaminophen for fever.
Generally antibiotics are not prescrevidos for acute bronchitis. That's because they do not work against viruses, the most common cause of acute bronchitis. However, if the doctor thinks that the patient has a bacterial infection, he may prescribe antibiotics.
A vaporizer or humidifier can help loosen mucus and relieve wheezing and airflow limitation in the lungs. If the bronchitis cause wheezing in breathing, the person may need to inhale drugs to open the air passages. The doctor may also prescribe medications to relieve or reduce the cough and the tartar via air inflamed.
Prevention
It is not always possible to prevent acute bronchitis. However, one can take steps to reduce the risk. The most important step is not to smoke. Also try to avoid other lung irritants, such as smoke, fumes, air pollution, and dust. Wash hands often to reduce exposure to germs. Keep flu vaccine every year, especially if you have lung problems.