Bronchitis is an inflammation of membranes of bronchi. This is a respiratory disorder caused by certain bacteria, virus or other pathogens. This can be acute as well as chronic. Symptoms of both bacterial and viral bronchitis are more or less the same. Hence, only a physician can differentiate between them.
Inflammation of bronchi in respiratory system caused by bacteria results in bacterial bronchitis. This is a rare condition. In rare cases, acute bronchitis is caused by bacteria. This is not a contagious disease. Any bronchitis is highly contagious during the first week of its onset. In this period the symptoms are noticed. Bacteria such as streptococcus, chlamydophila pneumoniae, bordatella pertussis and mycoplasma pneumoniae cause bronchitis in human beings.
Causes of Bacterial Bronchitis:
People with weak immune system are more prone to any respiratory disorder. If flu or common cold are not treated, they result in chronic bronchitis. An individual suffering from GERD or other respiratory problems are more prominent to suffer from the disease. Constant exposure to industrial smoke, air pollution or cigarette smoke may cause bronchitis. It is susceptible to have bacterial bronchitis if a person has constant allergy attacks.
Symptoms of Bacterial Bronchitis:
These symptoms vary from person to person. Most symptoms are alike to other illnesses caused by bacterial infections. These symptoms may continue for weeks together.
Symptoms include:
- Chills
- Tiredness
- Slight fever
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Hoarseness
- Wheezing
- Cough with yellowish mucus
- Back pain
Treatment for Bacterial Bronchitis:
Bacterial bronchitis symptoms are similar to other bacterial illnesses and thus, diagnosis is very difficult. Hence, if these symptoms present for more than 2 days, consult the health care provider immediately. Nasal culture, blood tests, chest x-rays, etc, are helpful in diagnosis. Bacterial bronchitis can be treated effectively with antibiotics. Doctor prescribes other medicines to alleviate fever, cough and other symptoms. Continue to use medications regularly up to stipulated time. Acute bronchitis can result in chronic bronchitis, if left untreated. Avoid exposing to dry and cold air to reduce the discomfort of symptoms. Try to keep humid and moist air. Vaporizers and other products can be used. Complete rest and hot bath are helpful in treating bacterial bronchitis. Drink adequate amounts of water to keep the body hydrated.
