Bronchitis is the inflammation (swelling) of the membranes lining the larger air passages, also known as the bronchi. Bronchitis is caused by an upper respiratory infection. Bronchitis can also occur due to influenza as well as bacteria such as mycoplasma pneumonia.

One can contract mycoplasma pneumonia when air which contains dust and irritating fumes is inhaled. Bronchitis usually results in one experiencing a cough which may be dry or produce phlegm. It is this continued coughing that lead to soreness of the chest and abdominal muscles.   

The main symptoms of bronchitis are:

• Coughing up more mucus than usual and sometimes with blood. Should this occur, please visit your nearest GP as soon as possible.
• Wheezing
• A runny nose
• General lethargy
• Difficulty breathing
• Fever with chills
• Expulsion of colored mucus (yellow, green, brown, etc.)
• Muscle aches
• Nasal congestion
• Sore throat

There are two types of bronchitis

• Acute bronchitis lasts for a several days or weeks and is often caused by viruses or bacteria. Acute bronchitis is a symptom of the common cold.
• Chronic bronchitis could be caused by cigarette smoke or regular irritants. Chronic bronchitis could last for up to three months with a persistent cough.

Any particles affecting the mucus membrane linings cause an irritation and swelling of these linings. These particles can reach the bronchial tubes via the nasal passages.

Any inflammation of the mucus membranes causes the body to increase its production of mucus. As the passageways are swollen due to the irritation, the excess mucus is unable to effectively drain and as a result, runs down the back of the throat. This causes post nasal drip or the backward flow of mucus down the throat.

Post nasal drip causes throat irritations and coughing and if not treated, could cause pneumonia.

Swelling of the mucus membranes can also block air flow in and out of the lungs as the radius of the passageways becomes smaller due to irritation.

• Most cases of bronchitis are usually short term and therefore requires nothing more than a visit to your doctors for treatment to relieve discomfort.
• Acetaminophen, aspirin or ibuprofen can help to relieve muscle aches and reduce fever often associated with bronchitis.
• Cough mixture is usually given to accompany other medications.
• Drinking lots of fluids is very important, as having a fever causes the body to lose fluids faster than usual and can result in dehydration if not checked.
• You can also treat bronchitis with inhalers a rescue puffer, salbutomal, ventalin or Novo-Salmol can be used.
• Antibiotics pay a limited role in treating bronchitis.