Understanding Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis causes severe discomfort and the condition may become serious if the signs and the symptoms persist. Also, untreated chronic bronchitis may lead to several health problems.

Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of chronic bronchitis include mild chest pain, breathlessness, persistent cough, early fatigue, fever, wheezing and rare episodes of dyspnea (short breath). The symptoms increase during the months of winters and tend to disappear as summers approach. This is a characteristic early symptom of chronic bronchitis.

Those who suffer from bronchitis may feel fatigued easily, accompanied by cough. Cyanosis, production of sputum and formation of greenish yellow mucus are also signs of chronic bronchitis.

Factors that Cause Chronic Bronchitis

The state is caused due to excess exposure to air pollutants and is common in coal workers, welders and construction workers. Those with a weak immune system and those suffering from acid reflux are at a higher risk of developing chronic bronchitis.

Skin infections, yeast infection, sinusitis, some form of allergy, continuous inhalation of lung irritants tend to increase development of chronic bronchitis.

It is a condition that is not caused easily. Over a period of time the bronchial tubes become damaged. This is when the bronchitis starts taking a chronic form. This is when the bronchial lining becomes inflamed thus creating a narrower airway for air exchange.

Things to Remember

Chronic bronchitis is preventable. Wear mask to prevent excess exposure to the pollutants and respiratory irritants. Practice Pranayam. These breathing exercises will strengthen your respiratory system as well as your immunity.

Do not eat sour things in excess. These will aggravate the symptoms. Taking steam may help one get rid of mucus formation temporarily.

It is important to take early signs and symptoms seriously. Untreated chronic bronchitis may lead to emphysema, pneumonia or even sudden death. It develops very slowly and most people suffer from 8-10 years before the chronic side of the condition becomes visible.

In rare cases cardiac arrest has been observed. Also, those suffering from chronic bronchitis are at a higher risk of developing respiratory infections such as flu and common cold.