Acute Bronchitis Symptoms

By Author: Rob Thomas
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The lung is a very vulnerable organ and it is susceptible to various diseases. One of these diseases is acute bronchitis. It is mostly caused by viral infection, which settles in the lungs. It may also be caused by bacterial infection. They may also result in the inflammation of the passages which are known as bronchi and bronchioles. Inflammation and the infection of the bronchi lead to symptoms that can include fever, yellow or white phlegm and shortness of breath. There are numerous complications of this disease such as pneumonia which have serious complications such as death.

Acute bronchitis is a pretty common disease which can occur at any time of the year, but usually happens in the colder months. It is usual in old people, young children and infants. It is mostly common in people who are smokers or who have been exposed to air pollution, on a fairly regular basis. Also, people suffering from congestive heart failure, emphysema and lung cancer are also at risk.

The diagnosis of the disease of acute bronchitis is very thorough. It begins with a complete check on the medical history of the patient, which include ...
... exposure to lung irritants and smoking history. Physical examination usually involves listening to the sound waves made by a lung, through a stethoscope. A cracking, bubbling or a wheezing sound indicates the presence of bronchitis. A sample of phlegm taken from the patient is tested to detect the presence of bacteria or other germs. People, who have a serious case of this disease, need to undergo an arterial blood gas test. In this test, a sample of blood is taken from an artery to measure different criteria such as effective breathing

The symptoms usually start when a person is suffering from flu or cold. They are usually characterized by excess mucus drainage from the sinuses, a general weak feeling and a burning throat. One may also have a slightly high temperature too. One can experience an uncomfortable feeling in the bronchi or trachea, which is intensified by wheezing or coughing. It is usually a cause for concern when people begin to notice blood in their sputum. The blood is usually caused due to the inflammation in the bronchi walls which are under great pressure when a patient coughs. The main symptoms of this form of bronchitis are listed as below:

Larger volumes of green or bright yellow sputum
A prolonged cough
Symptoms of systemic disease (the whole body is ill)

The pertinent question is what is the treatment for this disease? By following a steady diet pumped with adequate E, C and A. Avoiding exertions are common sense measures. If experience just fever, one should have plenty of bed rest. A doctor should be called when the symptoms remain, longer than usual and if the patient is experiencing shortness of breath or feeling weak. If one follows certain precautions and basic treatment, the disease can be brought under control.
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Please visit this link for more information on Acute Bronchitis and this link for information on Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome.