Despite the advances in science and technology mankind has made, people still acquire diseases that have long been existing. One of these diseases is bronchitis – a condition that happens a result of swelling and inflammation of lungs airways caused by several factors. The statistics for bronchitis are unfortunately high as indicated by the World Health Organization report in 2004. For a modernized country like Australia, the WHO reported that bronchitis prevalence along with other respiratory disorders like asthma and emphysema lead to 20 male deaths per 100,000 population. For this reason, the health agencies must be aggressive in educating the public about bronchitis symptoms so measures can be immediately taken.
Yet, it must also be realized that there are two types of bronchitis: acute bronchitis and chronic bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis is inflammation of the lungs mainly caused by smoking for long period of time. On the contrary, acute bronchitis happens unexpectedly which is triggered by a bacterial or viral infection. This type of bronchitis is typical during cold months and affects a large number of children and elderly. Yet, the disease can be given immediate attention as soon as bronchitis symptoms are consulted to health professional.
The most usual bronchitis symptoms according to the Mayo Clinic website are the following: Cough – coughing is a normal reaction to remove mucus from the lungs. It can be inconvenient especially when it is non-productive which is why people see a doctor even for a cough.
Shortness of breath. This is further exaggerated by physical exertion so doing some tasks can be exhausting. It is ideal to take a rest when you have bronchitis.
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Low fever and chills. The person runs a low fever with colds which can make the person mistake the symptom for a flu.
Wheezing Lethargy. The person feels weak and unable to move around.
Chest pain
There are other important things you must understand. First, bronchitis symptoms are common in both old and young people. Also, the two types of bronchitis manifest the same bronchitis symptoms. Nonetheless, recurring respiratory symptoms needs prompt medical attention since this may indicate other respiratory diseases.
