Bronchitis

Medical Review

Written by: Dr. Von Chiao Wen Doctor of Medicine (MD), N.I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University

Reviewed by: Dr. Lee Chin Meng Doctor of Medicine (MD), Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE)

Overview of Bronchitis

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lower respiratory tract. It can be acute which is temporary or chronic or permanent where the effects on the structure of the respiratory tract have changed due to prolonged inflammation.

Signs and Symptoms of Bronchitis

Cough with/without phlegm (sputum), Fever (in acute bronchitis), Chest pain/discomfort, Shortness of breath, Wheezing, Widened chest

Common Causes of Bronchitis

Infection by viruses/bacteria/fungus (for acute or exacerbation of chronic bronchitis), Smoking, Alpha-1 anti-trypsin deficiency, Air pollution

Risk Factors of Bronchitis

Infection by viruses/bacteria/fungus (for acute or exacerbation of chronic bronchitis) Smoking, Alpha-1 anti-trypsin deficiency, Air pollution

Investigation Techniques for Bronchitis

Full blood count, Sputum culture, Serum alpha-1 anti-trypsin level, Spirometry, Arterial Blood Gas

Treatment and Prevention of Bronchitis

Antibiotics (for acute and exacerbation of chronic bronchitis) Inhalers, Steroids therapy (for exacerbation of chronic bronchitis), Pulmonary rehabilitation exercise, Influenza and pneumococcal vaccination, Oxygen therapy, Smoking cessation

Available Bronchitis Medicines

No medicines currently available for this condition.