A great number of individuals worldwide are diagnosed with chronic bronchitis. In fact, in the United States Alone, the American Lung Association reported that no less than 9.9 million American are have chronic bronchitis. Further, chronic bronchitis can lead to emphysema which is categorized as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. The main reason behind chronic bronchitis is tobacco smoking which is hazardous for the health. Having chronic bronchitis is not only costly but very inconvenient as well since symptoms include persistent cough for at least three months, wheezing, dyspnea, yellowish blood-stained sputum, fatigue and edema. These symptoms are caused by swollen and inflamed bronchi which mainly functions to transport air from lung to trachea. Also, due to the recurrent coughing and scarring of bronchi walls,hair like appendages known as cilia are lost thereby lessening its capacity to efficiently transport mucus. Mucus is normally expelled by the lungs resulting to cough. Therefore, chronic bronchitis inhibits the efficient transport of air as well as fluids due to limited passageway. Because of this, millions of people search for solutions to stop chronic bronchitis although treatment involves relieving symptoms since chronic bronchitis is irreversible.
The main goal of chronic bronchitis treatment is reducing symptoms and preventing complications. Hopefully, some intervention would delay the progression of the disease that can result to emphysema or lung cancer. One of the most recommended chronic bronchitis treatment to patients is to quit smoking. It is then very necesary for doctors to be skilled in handling patients with tobacco abuse.
The following list are common medications use in chronic bronchitis treatment:
Bronchodilator Medications. Can be aerosol sprays or in the form of pills. Such medications can help open and relax the air passages in lungs thereby helping a person to breathe easily.
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Steroids – effective in relieving symptoms but long term use is not advisable for its adverse side effects.
Antibiotics
Vaccines
Oxygen therapy
Surgery – Portion of the lung tissues that are affected are removed Pulmonary Rehabilitation – This includes teaching and counseling the patient towards recovery. Quitting smoking and physical activity is integrated into the program
Essentially, consulting a physician is the first step towards chronic bronchitis treatment.
