With the increase of mucous production in the bronchi, bronchitis, in which cough begins, can be caused by infectious diseases caused by viruses and bacteria, as well as smoking, asthma and various allergies. Bronchitis, which manifests itself especially in seasonal transitions and winter months, is divided into two as acute and chronic. While acute bronchitis can heal in a short time; Treatment of chronic bronchitis, especially caused by smoking, can be more challenging. Therefore, people who show symptoms of bronchitis should consult a doctor as soon as possible and be treated.

 

 

What is bronchitis?

 

Inhaled air passes through the windpipe to the lungs. Inflammation of the bronchi formed by the splitting of the trachea in the lungs for various reasons is called bronchitis. Bronchitis, which is a kind of infectious disease; It may vary according to seasonal changes, age and other health problems of the person. Cough and sputum are the most common symptoms in bronchitis. Shortness of breath is frequently seen in progressive chronic bronchitis. It can be transmitted through coughing and contact with the belongings of the infected person, as in cases of flu and colds.

 

Bronchitis Diagnosis

 

When people who show symptoms of bronchitis apply to a doctor, the patient's complaints are questioned and a physical examination is performed. A preliminary diagnosis can be made by listening to lung sounds during breathing, but some tests are required for the definitive diagnosis of bronchitis. These; sputum sample, chest x-ray, computed tomography, pulmonary function tests. With these tests, the type of bronchitis can be determined as well as the type of treatment.

 

Bronchitis Treatment

 

Before starting bronchitis treatment, the cause of the disease should be determined. Antibiotic use will not be effective if bronchitis is caused by a non-bacterial cause. If a bacterium causing bronchitis is detected only in the desired sputum sample, antibiotics are given according to this bacterial type.

It is very important to rest during the healing process of acute bronchitis. In addition to the benefits of drinking plenty of fluids, some medications can also be used to relieve symptoms. In the treatment of chronic bronchitis, bronchodilator and corticosteroid drugs can be used in cases where the patient's complaints are severe. The method to be followed in the treatment of chronic bronchitis due to another chronic disease such as COPD may vary depending on the condition of the patient and the disease.