Regular bronchitis is more common. Bronchitis in adults - causes, signs, symptoms and treatment, drugs, prevention of bronchitis

– it is diffuse- inflammatory disease bronchi, affecting the mucous membrane or the entire thickness of the bronchial wall. Damage and inflammation of the bronchial tree can occur as an independent, isolated process (primary bronchitis) or develop as a complication against the background of existing chronic diseases and past infections (secondary bronchitis). Damage to the mucous epithelium of the bronchi disrupts the production of secretions, the motor activity of the cilia and the process of cleansing the bronchi. There are acute and chronic bronchitis, which differ in etiology, pathogenesis and treatment.

ICD-10

J20 J40 J41 J42

General information

Bronchitis is a diffuse inflammatory disease of the bronchi, affecting the mucous membrane or the entire thickness of the bronchial wall. Damage and inflammation of the bronchial tree can occur as an independent, isolated process (primary bronchitis) or develop as a complication against the background of existing chronic diseases and past infections (secondary bronchitis). Damage to the mucous epithelium of the bronchi disrupts the production of secretions, the motor activity of the cilia and the process of cleansing the bronchi. There are acute and chronic bronchitis, which differ in etiology, pathogenesis and treatment.

Acute bronchitis

The acute course of bronchitis is characteristic of many acute respiratory infections (ARVI, acute respiratory infections). The most common causes of acute bronchitis are parainfluenza viruses, respiratory syncytial virus, adenoviruses, less often - influenza virus, measles, enteroviruses, rhinoviruses, mycoplasma, chlamydia and mixed viral-bacterial infections. Acute bronchitis rarely has bacterial nature(pneumococci, staphylococci, streptococci, Haemophilus influenzae, whooping cough pathogen). The inflammatory process first affects the nasopharynx, tonsils, trachea, gradually spreading to the lower respiratory tract - the bronchi.

A viral infection can provoke the proliferation of opportunistic microflora, exacerbating catarrhal and infiltrative changes in the mucosa. The upper layers of the bronchial wall are affected: hyperemia and swelling of the mucous membrane, pronounced infiltration of the submucosal layer occurs, dystrophic changes and rejection of epithelial cells occur. At proper treatment acute bronchitis has a favorable prognosis, the structure and functions of the bronchi are completely restored after 3 - 4 weeks. Acute bronchitis is very often observed in childhood: this fact is explained by the high susceptibility of children to respiratory infections. Regularly recurring bronchitis contributes to the transition of the disease to a chronic form.

Chronical bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is a long-term inflammatory disease of the bronchi, progressing over time and causing structural changes and dysfunction of the bronchial tree. Chronic bronchitis occurs with periods of exacerbations and remissions, and often has a hidden course. IN Lately there is an increase in the incidence of chronic bronchitis due to environmental deterioration (air pollution with harmful impurities), the widespread spread of bad habits (smoking), high level allergization of the population. With prolonged exposure to unfavorable factors on the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract, gradual changes in the structure of the mucous membrane develop, increased secretion sputum, impaired drainage ability of the bronchi, decreased local immunity. In chronic bronchitis, hypertrophy of the bronchial glands and thickening of the mucous membrane occur. The progression of sclerotic changes in the bronchial wall leads to the development of bronchiectasis and deforming bronchitis. A change in the air-conducting ability of the bronchi significantly impairs lung ventilation.

Classification of bronchitis

Bronchitis is classified according to a number of characteristics:

According to severity:

• mild degree
• medium degree
• severe

By clinical course:

Acute bronchitis

Acute bronchitis depending on etiological factor there are:

• infectious origin (viral, bacterial, viral-bacterial)
• non-infectious origin (chemical and physical harmful factors, allergens)
• mixed origin (combination of infection and the action of physical and chemical factors)
• unspecified etiology

According to the area of ​​inflammatory damage, they are distinguished:

• bronchitis with predominant damage to the bronchi of medium and small caliber
• bronchiolitis

According to the mechanism of occurrence, primary and secondary acute bronchitis are distinguished. According to the nature of the inflammatory exudate, bronchitis is distinguished: catarrhal, purulent, catarrhal-purulent and atrophic.

Chronical bronchitis

Depending on the nature of the inflammation, a distinction is made between catarrhal chronic bronchitis and purulent chronic bronchitis. Based on changes in the function of external respiration, obstructive bronchitis and non-obstructive forms of the disease are distinguished. According to the phases of the process during chronic bronchitis, exacerbations and remissions alternate.

The main factors contributing to the development of acute bronchitis are:

• physical factors (damp, cold air, sharp drop temperatures, exposure to radiation, dust, smoke);
• chemical factors (the presence of pollutants in the atmospheric air - carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, chlorine vapor, acids and alkalis, tobacco smoke, etc.);
• bad habits (smoking, alcohol abuse);
• stagnant processes in the pulmonary circulation (cardiovascular pathologies, disruption of the mucociliary clearance mechanism);
• the presence of foci of chronic infection in the oral and nasal cavity - sinusitis, tonsillitis, adenoiditis;
• hereditary factor (allergic predisposition, congenital disorders of the bronchopulmonary system).

It has been established that smoking is the main provoking factor in the development of various bronchopulmonary pathologies, including chronic bronchitis. Smokers suffer from chronic bronchitis 2-5 times more often than non-smokers. The harmful effects of tobacco smoke are observed in both active and passive smoking.

Long-term exposure to harmful production conditions predisposes a person to the occurrence of chronic bronchitis: dust - cement, coal, flour, wood; vapors of acids, alkalis, gases; Uncomfortable temperature and humidity conditions. Air pollution by emissions industrial enterprises and transport, fuel combustion products have an aggressive effect primarily on the human respiratory system, causing damage and irritation of the bronchi. High concentration of harmful impurities in the air major cities, especially in calm weather, leads to severe exacerbations of chronic bronchitis.

Repeated acute respiratory viral infections, acute bronchitis and pneumonia, chronic diseases of the nasopharynx and kidneys can further cause the development of chronic bronchitis. As a rule, the infection is layered on top of the existing damage to the respiratory mucosa by other damaging factors. A damp and cold climate contributes to the development and exacerbation of chronic diseases, including bronchitis. Important role belongs to heredity, which under certain conditions increases the risk of chronic bronchitis.

Symptoms of bronchitis

Acute bronchitis

The main clinical symptom of acute bronchitis - low chest cough - usually appears against the background of existing manifestations of acute respiratory infection or simultaneously with them. The patient experiences fever (up to moderately high), weakness, malaise, nasal congestion, and runny nose. At the beginning of the disease, the cough is dry, with scanty, difficult to separate sputum, worsening at night. Frequent coughing attacks cause pain in the abdominal muscles and chest. After 2-3 days, sputum (mucous, mucopurulent) begins to come out abundantly, and the cough becomes moist and soft. Dry and moist rales are heard in the lungs. In uncomplicated cases of acute bronchitis, shortness of breath is not observed, and its appearance indicates damage to the small bronchi and the development of obstructive syndrome. The patient's condition returns to normal within a few days, but the cough may continue for several weeks. Long-term heat indicates the addition of a bacterial infection and the development of complications.

Chronical bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis occurs, as a rule, in adults, after repeated acute bronchitis, or with prolonged irritation of the bronchi ( cigarette smoke, dust, exhaust gases, chemical vapors). Symptoms of chronic bronchitis are determined by the activity of the disease (exacerbation, remission), nature (obstructive, non-obstructive), and the presence of complications.

The main manifestation of chronic bronchitis is prolonged cough for several months over 2 years in a row. The cough is usually wet, appears in the morning, and is accompanied by the release of a small amount of sputum. The cough intensifies in cold, damp weather, and subsides in dry weather. warm time of the year. The general well-being of patients remains almost unchanged; coughing becomes a common occurrence for smokers. Chronic bronchitis progresses over time, the cough intensifies, takes on the character of attacks, and becomes annoying and unproductive. There are complaints of purulent sputum, malaise, weakness, fatigue, sweating at night. Shortness of breath occurs during exertion, even minor ones. In patients with a predisposition to allergies, bronchospasm occurs, indicating the development of obstructive syndrome and asthmatic manifestations.

Complications

Bronchopneumonia is a common complication of acute bronchitis and develops as a result of decreased local immunity and the accumulation of bacterial infection. Repeated acute bronchitis (3 or more times a year) leads to the transition of the inflammatory process to a chronic form. The disappearance of provoking factors (cessation of smoking, climate change, change of place of work) can completely relieve the patient from chronic bronchitis. As chronic bronchitis progresses, repeated acute pneumonia occurs, and with a long course the disease can become chronic. obstructive disease lungs. Obstructive changes in the bronchial tree are considered a pre-asthma condition (asthmatic bronchitis) and increase the risk of bronchial asthma. Complications appear in the form of pulmonary emphysema, pulmonary hypertension, bronchiectasis, and cardiopulmonary failure.

Diagnostics

Treatment of bronchitis

In the case of bronchitis with a severe concomitant form of ARVI, treatment is indicated in the pulmonology department; in case of uncomplicated bronchitis, treatment is outpatient. Therapy for bronchitis should be comprehensive: fighting infection, restoring bronchial patency, eliminating harmful provoking factors. It is important to complete the full course of treatment for acute bronchitis to prevent it from becoming chronic. In the first days of the disease, bed rest, drinking plenty of fluids (1.5 - 2 times more than normal), and a dairy-vegetable diet are indicated. During treatment, smoking cessation is required. It is necessary to increase the air humidity in the room where a patient with bronchitis is located, since the cough intensifies in dry air.

Therapy for acute bronchitis may include antiviral drugs: interferon (intranasal), for influenza - rimantadine, ribavirin, for adenoviral infection - RNase. In most cases, antibiotics are not used, except in cases of bacterial infection, with prolonged acute bronchitis, with severe inflammatory reaction according to the results laboratory tests. To improve the removal of sputum, mucolytic and expectorants are prescribed (bromhexine, ambroxol, expectorant herbal tea, inhalations with soda and saline solutions). Used in the treatment of bronchitis vibration massage, therapeutic exercises, physiotherapy. For a dry, unproductive, painful cough, the doctor may prescribe medications that suppress the cough reflex - oxeladine, prenoxdiazine, etc.

Chronic bronchitis requires long-term treatment, both during the period of exacerbation and during the period of remission. In case of exacerbation of bronchitis, with purulent sputum, antibiotics are prescribed (after determining the sensitivity of the isolated microflora to them), sputum thinners and expectorants. When allergic nature chronic bronchitis requires treatment antihistamines. Regimen – semi-bed, always warm, plenty of fluids (alkaline mineral water, tea with raspberries, honey). Sometimes therapeutic bronchoscopy is performed, with bronchial lavage with various medicinal solutions(bronchial lavage). Breathing exercises and physiotherapy (inhalations, UHF, electrophoresis) are indicated. At home, you can use mustard plasters, medical cups, and warm compresses. To strengthen the body's resistance, vitamins and immunostimulants are taken. Outside of exacerbation of bronchitis, it is advisable Spa treatment. Walking in the fresh air is very useful, normalizing respiratory function, sleep and general condition. If there are no exacerbations of chronic bronchitis within 2 years, the patient is removed from dispensary observation by a pulmonologist.

Forecast

Acute bronchitis in an uncomplicated form lasts about two weeks and ends full recovery. In the case of concomitant chronic diseases of the cardiovascular system, a protracted course of the disease is observed (a month or more). The chronic form of bronchitis has a long course, alternating periods of exacerbations and remissions.

Prevention

Preventive measures to prevent many bronchopulmonary diseases, including acute and chronic bronchitis, include: eliminating or reducing the effect on the respiratory system harmful factors(dust, air pollution, smoking), timely treatment chronic infections, prevention allergic manifestations, increasing immunity, healthy lifestyle.

Content

On the background colds and ARVI can develop acute bronchitis, like dangerous complication requiring immediate treatment using medicinal methods. The patient complains of a violation respiratory function and shortness of breath, suffers from high fever and other unpleasant symptoms that significantly reduce the quality of life. In order to eliminate long-term and not always successful treatment of chronic bronchitis in adults in the future, it is necessary to respond to alarming symptoms in a timely manner and not hesitate to visit an otolaryngologist or local physician.

What is bronchitis

This infection, in which damage to the bronchial mucosa is observed, the inflammatory process progresses, and the drainage function of the bronchial tree is disrupted. With absence timely treatment Bronchitis can develop into pneumonia and occur in a weakened body in a complicated form. To cleanse the bronchi and ensure productive separation of viscous secretions and sputum, doctors resort to official and alternative methods and recommend not to cause a health problem.

Causes

Before starting effective treatment of acute bronchitis in adults with medications, it is necessary to find out the etiology of the pathological process and eliminate the main provoking factor. More often, a characteristic illness is a complication of a cold, acute respiratory viral infection, pharyngitis, laryngitis, influenza, i.e. it progresses against the background of increased activity of pathogenic viruses, bacteria, and is of an infectious nature. Among the provoking conditions, doctors identify fungal diseases, do not exclude the influence of other atypical factors. Among them:

Symptoms and treatment of bronchitis in adults are closely interrelated; with proper diagnosis, they ensure a speedy recovery of the patient. To feel the common therapeutic effect and significantly reduce unpleasant symptoms, it is important to remember that relapse against a background of weakened immunity predominates in the following clinical pictures:

• environmental factor;
• presence of bad habits (speech more goes about smoking);
• social and household factor;
• genetic predisposition to the disease;
• chest injuries;
• weakened immune system;
• chronic infectious processes;
• complication of the underlying disease;
• harmful production.

First signs

Symptoms of bronchitis in adults do not appear immediately, incubation period with an infectious lesion lasts from several hours to several days. Afterwards, the patient complains of feeling unwell, gradually experiences more severe symptoms, and loses ability to work. Here are the first changes in the general well-being of the patient with a progressive disease provoked by increased activity of staphylococci, streptococci, pneumococci:

• the appearance of a wet cough;
• spasms in the throat, attacks of pain;
• noticeable wheezing when breathing;
• increased body temperature;
• reduction in sleep phase;
• attacks of weakness;
• impaired sweating.

Symptoms

If you do not promptly pay attention to the first signs of bronchitis in an adult, the disease progresses, the general condition of the patient worsens sharply, and is supplemented by general signs of intoxication of the body. The patient complains of difficulty breathing, especially at night, has difficulty producing sputum, and coughing attacks may be accompanied by the presence of bloody mucus. In addition to a lingering cough reflex, symptoms of damage to the bronchopulmonary system are presented below:

• sharp deterioration in appetite;
• weight loss;
• internal sensation of heat, fever;
• high body temperature;
• increased sweating;
• severe pain behind the chest;
• the appearance of blood when trying to cough up;
• symptoms food poisoning body.

Spicy

The disease progresses spontaneously. The prevailing inflammation confines the patient to bed and causes him to suffer from attacks of sore throat. It is difficult for the patient to inhale air, since each breath is additionally accompanied by a squeezing feeling in the sternum area. Cough in in this case performs a protective function, since it imitates a sharp exhalation with an attempt to free oneself from pathogenic flora. In addition to inflammation of the oral mucosa, doctors with acute form The disease has the following symptoms:

• chills, fever, high body temperature;
• dry cough that becomes wet after a few days;
• mucus of a transparent, yellowish or greenish hue;
• visible blood when trying to cough up;
• sharp pains behind the sternum, worse when coughing.

Chronic

Period acute symptoms lasts 4 days, later the characteristic ailment acquires a chronic form, is difficult to treat conservatively or is no longer curable. The symptoms of this disease subside significantly, and intensify mainly in the relapse stage, and may be accompanied by rhinitis and tracheitis. These are the following changes in the general well-being of an adult patient:

• cough with moderate sputum production;
• unstable temperature regime(37 - 37.5 degrees);
• pressing feeling in the chest;
• bronchospasms;
• increased fatigue;
• decreased vitality.

Bronchitis in children

If a child begins to cough heavily, especially at night, while the body temperature rises, the mucous membrane of the throat hurts and swells, doctors do not rule out acute bronchitis. The cough reflex bothers you with attacks: at first it predominates with liquid mucus, then it is supplemented by greenish sputum or upset by streaks of blood. The little patient becomes nervous and irritable, sleeps poorly and behaves extremely restlessly. Other symptoms of the pathological process in childhood are presented below:

• malaise, general weakness;
• complete lack of appetite;
• pain in the sternum when changing body position;
• various moist rales;
• more frequent migraine attacks;
• barking cough.

Kinds

Before you choose effective medicines for bronchitis in adults, it is necessary to diagnose the type of disease, identify and eliminate the main provoking factor in a specific clinical picture. According to the pathological process, the disease predominates in acute or chronic form. Based on the nature of the pathogenic pathogen, doctors distinguish the following types of disease in adults:

1. Obstructive form. The attacks are accompanied by bronchospasms, and occur in the morning, after going out into the cold, during physical activity after rest.
2. Allergic form. It is non-infectious in nature and occurs as a result of increased sensitivity of the body to a potential allergen.
3. Heavy smoker's disease. Under the influence of toxins, air retention in the alveoli develops, and pulmonary emphysema progresses.
4. Recurrent form (bronchiolitis). Doctors have determined that the disease will recur more than three times during the year.
5. Tuberculosis. It is provoked by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which predominates even at the early stage of the underlying disease.
6. Viral. This is a serious complication of acute respiratory viral infections, influenza, adenoviral diseases.
7. Toxic-chemical. The pathological process is preceded by poisoning of the body, prolonged inhalation of toxic substances and reagents.
8. Infectious. It is a complication of diseases when the etiology of the pathology is the increased activity of atypical bacteria.

Why is bronchitis dangerous in adults?

If combined treatment, which includes conservative and physiotherapeutic methods, is not applied in a timely manner, serious health problems prevail in the body, and pathological processes become irreversible, regularly recur, and sometimes fatal. An adult patient should be wary of:

• bronchopneumonia;
• pulmonary pneumonia;
• bronchotracheitis;
• tracheobronchitis;
• purulent infection;
• pulmonary hypertension;
• emphysema;
• chronic pulmonary heart disease;
• expiratory tracheal stenosis;
• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

How to diagnose

Comprehensive treatment is carried out at home, but the first step is to diagnose the characteristic ailment. A detailed examination begins with collecting anamnesis data and carefully studying the complaints of an adult patient. Next, it is necessary to differentiate the presumptive diagnosis, since under such unpleasant symptoms many diseases are suitable respiratory tract. From laboratory research Doctors recommend:

• general blood and urine test (to identify the inflammatory process on different stages diseases);
• microbiological analysis of sputum (to determine the nature of the pathological process, the type of pathogenic agent);
• immunological and biochemical blood test (hemoglobin may increase or decrease pathologically, a sharp jump in ESR and leukocytes predominates).

From clinical instrumental examinations in case of bronchitis, to determine the etiology of the pathological process, it is appropriate to carry out:

• X-ray of the lungs (to assess the condition of the pulmonary structures, an enrichment of the pattern and thickening of the roots of the lungs are observed);
• bronchoscopy (to study the inner surface of the bronchi, collect materials for microbiological and histological examination);
• bronchography (for visual examination from the inside of the trachea and bronchi, further histological examination);
• echocardiography (to detect cardiac dysfunction, arrhythmias in an adult patient);
• spirometry (predominant decrease in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and the ratio of FEV to vital capacity);
• peak flowmetry (to monitor the functional functioning of the lungs and assess the state of airway patency);
• fluorography (to assess the condition of the lungs, visualize pathogenic lumens and darkening in a homogeneous structure);
• ECG, CT and MRI (on the individual recommendation of the attending physician).

Treatment of bronchitis in adults

If this disease progresses, the first thing an adult patient needs is bed rest and plenty of warm drinks to speed up the removal of sputum. The optimal dose of liquid consumed is 4 liters, no less, and we are talking not only about boiled water, but also about homemade decoctions of medicinal herbs, fruit drinks from berries and fruits. In addition, in the room in which the patient is located, it is necessary to maintain a temperature of 18 - 20 degrees, humidity - 60%. Further recommendations from specialists are presented in the following stages of treatment:

1. To increase the effectiveness of treatment, the first step is to give up bad habits and stop contact with factors that provoke the disease. environment.
2. It is necessary to exclude fatty, fried, peppered and hot foods from the daily diet, be sure to adhere to a therapeutic diet, and do not leave your stomach empty.
3. To solve the problem of impaired breathing, it is recommended to take bronchodilators orally, and if the temperature rises, antipyretics.
4. The next stage of treatment is oral administration of mucolytics and expectorants of synthetic and plant origin, vitamins.
5. A bacterial infection of the bronchi cannot be treated without oral antibiotics. systemic action in the body in full.

Drugs

With severe symptoms of the disease, an adult patient requires an integrated approach to the health problem, which includes taking representatives of several pharmacological groups at once in one treatment regimen. Treatment is provided by a therapist, pulmonologist, and, if necessary, a phthisiatrician. Features of intensive care are presented in the table below:

Name pharmacological group	Action in the body	Effective pharmacological positions
Expectorants (synthetic origin)	help make sputum less thick and viscous, promote its productive discharge during expectoration	Lazolvan Ambrobene, Bromhexine Acetylcysteine
Bronchodilators	dilate the bronchi to facilitate mucus discharge, eliminate obstruction, respiratory failure, shortness of breath by stimulating specific receptors	Terbutaline Eufillin Salbutamol Phenterol Berodual (Bromide)
Mucolytics (herbal origin)	productively changes the concentration of sputum, facilitates the process of its removal from the respiratory tract, and makes breathing easier	Mucoltin marshmallow root, licorice Doctor Mom (syrup) Thermopsis
Antihistamines, hyposensitizing agents		Fenistil Suprastin Supradin Loratadine
Antiviral drugs	appropriate for oral use if the cause of bronchitis in adults is increased activity of pathogenic viruses	Remantadine Ribavirin Genfiron Kipferon Deoxyribonuclease
Systemic antibiotics	necessary to suppress pathogenic flora and eliminate bacterial infections from the systemic bloodstream	Clarithromycin Azithromycin Erythromycin Macropen Rovamycin
Immunostimulants	strengthen the body's immune response, promote quick recovery	Interferon Cycloferon Polyoxidonium
Methylxanthines	For effective treatment symptoms of bronchial asthma, in complicated clinical pictures	Theophylline Theobromine

Additional treatments

In addition to capsules and oral tablets, doctors recommend physiotherapeutic treatment methods that not only eliminate the unpleasant symptoms of the disease, but also significantly speed up the recovery process. Additional when systemic damage bronchi are such therapeutic measures that require a full course of 10 - 12 procedures:

1. Speleotherapy. The essence of the technique is to recreate an artificial microclimate that is as close as possible to the properties and conditions of salt caves with constant temperature and low humidity, without fluctuations in atmospheric pressure.
2. Breathing exercises. To cure the chronic or obstructive form of the disease, doctors recommend following the Buteyko or Strelnikova method. Breathing exercises make breathing easier, stimulate lung function, and speed up the removal of mucus.
3. Massage. With massaging movements of the chest, you can significantly improve the separation of sputum, even of a purulent nature, relieve impaired breathing, activate the compensatory mechanism of ventilation, and eliminate severe shortness of breath.
4. Cupping massage. Helps quickly get rid of stagnant processes with the accumulation of phlegm, has a warming effect, temporarily frees the lungs and facilitates breathing impaired by the disease.
5. Physiotherapy. In this case, we are talking about such inpatient procedures in the amount of 10-12 sessions, such as UHF therapy, magnetic therapy, electrophoresis, steam and oil inhalations.
6. Inhalation aerosol therapy. Using a nebulizer, it is recommended to use steam inhalations with soda-alkaline solutions, medicinal herbs. Carry out the procedures no more than 2 times a day; after completion, do not be exposed to drafts.
7. Phytotherapy. These are herbal ointments for topical use, herbal drops and natural medicinal compositions to alleviate the general well-being of an adult patient with bronchial damage and rapid discharge of sputum.

Treatment during pregnancy

To eliminate fetal hypoxia, the threat of miscarriage, and reduce the risk of bleeding and other negative consequences, when conservatively treating bronchitis in expectant mothers, it is important not to use a number of systemic antibiotics. X-rays during pregnancy are also contraindicated, but the following medical recommendations are valuable and safe:

1. To suppress the cough reflex, it is recommended to prepare and take breast milk, linden tea, milk with honey.
2. A pregnant woman is advised to drink more. Drinking plenty of fluids includes warm milk, herbal infusions, green tea (coffee and carbonated drinks are contraindicated).
3. Therapeutic exercise and breathing exercises help ease breathing and eliminate hypoxia during intrauterine development.

If we talk about drug therapy, in case of illness, doctors place special emphasis on the following pharmacological positions, recommended during pregnancy strictly on the recommendation of the leading gynecologist:

1. Mucoltin. This is an expectorant drug in the form of tablets, which must be taken until the alarming symptoms completely disappear. Daily dose of this mucolytic - up to 3 - 4 tablets.
2. Flemoxin Solutab. This is a fourth generation antibiotic in tablet form. In the acute form, it is recommended to take 1 tablet orally three times a day for 5 to 7 days.
3. Liquorice root. This is a syrup for oral administration. The medicine must be taken according to the instructions, preferably between meals 3 times a day. The course of intensive therapy is 10 - 14 days.

Folk remedies

Methods alternative medicine are auxiliary, accelerate the patient’s recovery process without complications and side effects, perform a preventive function. The main thing is to choose a recipe with such herbal ingredients that an adult patient does not have. allergic reaction in a specific clinical picture. The following folk remedies are highly effective:

1. Cranberry syrup with vodka. Grind 100 g of fresh berries into a paste, add 50 g of sugar. Stir the mixture, bring to a boil, then remove from heat and add 200 ml of vodka. Take 15 – 20 drops in the morning and evening before meals. The course of treatment is until the unpleasant symptoms disappear completely.
2. Propolis. You need to melt 20 g of bee waste product in a water bath, add 500 g of Vaseline and 100 g of cocoa butter. Keep the finished mixture on moderate heat for 10 minutes, stirring constantly. The prepared ointment should be rubbed chest at night, then wrap yourself well in a warm blanket and fall asleep. This procedure must be carried out until the alarming symptoms disappear completely.
3. Oregano. This folk remedy is effective for bronchitis, which is accompanied by severe shortness of breath. It is necessary to combine 1 part of oregano, 2 parts of coltsfoot and marshmallow. Mix the chopped herbs, then 1 tbsp. l. The finished mixture needs to be poured with 0.5 liters of boiling water and left for 20 minutes. Strain the finished infusion, take 0.5 tbsp orally warm. after meals 2 – 3 times a day.
4. Elecampane. You need 1 tbsp. l. dried and pre-chopped herb pour 1.5 tbsp. boiling water, cover with a lid and leave the broth until completely cooled. When ready, strain the mixture, heat it up, add 1 tbsp. l honey, mix thoroughly, bring to homogeneity. The finished medicine should be used daily, 200 ml 3 times for 3 to 4 weeks.
5. Radish. This remedy is especially effective with honey, as it provides a stable expectorant effect for bronchitis. To prepare, you need to combine 50 g of chopped aloe, 60 g of tops and 120 g of chopped vegetable. Pour the composition 1 tbsp. water, simmer over moderate heat for half an hour. After cooling in ready medicine you need to add 30 g of honey. Take 1 tbsp orally. l three times a day for 2 – 3 weeks without a break.

Consequences

If conservative treatment This diagnosis was carried out correctly, positive dynamics in adult patients are observed after 5 – 7 days. It is important not to stop further therapy, otherwise the unpleasant symptoms of the disease will remind themselves again acute attack cough. If the treatment is chosen incorrectly, serious health problems cannot be ruled out. Among them:

• pneumonia;
• bronchial asthma;
• Chronical bronchitis;
• pneumonia;
• emphysema;
• the addition of a secondary infection with subsequent accumulation of purulent masses.

To enhance the overall therapeutic effect, conservative methods of treating bronchitis should be supplemented with physiotherapeutic procedures, strict bed rest and proper nutrition while following a therapeutic diet. During pregnancy, in order to exclude extensive intrauterine pathologies, it is recommended to be treated with alternative methods or take timely precautions against the background of a weakened immune system.

Prevention

To completely eliminate the unpleasant symptoms of bronchitis from your Everyday life, it is better for adults and children to take timely care of available preventive measures, consult your local doctor. The recommendations below are especially valuable for seasonal vitamin deficiency and during an epidemic of colds and viral diseases. Basic preventive measures for adults are:

• final cessation of smoking and other bad habits;
• regular walks in the fresh air;
• use of respiratory protection equipment hazardous production;
• systematic implementation of simple breathing exercises;
• timely prevention of seasonal acute respiratory viral infections and colds;
• avoiding prolonged hypothermia of the body;
• visit to the bathhouse, preventive foot baths made from herbal compositions, salt solution;
• regular wet cleaning and ventilation of the room;
• using onions and garlic as local antiseptics;
• balanced diet (only healthy foods);
• strengthening the immune system using official and alternative methods;
• timely contact with a specialist.

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Discuss

Bronchitis - symptoms and treatment in adults: effective medicines and remedies for the disease

There is an opinion among the population that bronchitis is a cold. Recently, scientists categorically disagree with this. Cold air itself does not cause illness. If this were so, then the peoples of Chukotka and the Far North should all suffer from colds.

According to statistics, the percentage of bronchitis diseases in autumn and spring is approximately the same in Australia, Finland, and Great Britain. Most likely, this is due to the fact that the human pulmonary system, in particular the bronchi, does not tolerate sharp fluctuations in temperature and air humidity.

Bronchitis is an inflammatory disease of the bronchial mucosa.

The bronchial system is a branched network of alveolar processes (bronchioles, alveoli), through which air is delivered to the pulmonary system, and from there oxygen enters the blood.

As the inflammatory process develops, mucus accumulates in the bronchi, making it difficult to deliver air to the lungs.

What causes bronchitis?

The main cause of bronchitis is a virus or microbe. Therefore, the peak of the disease occurs in the autumn and spring.

In addition, the occurrence of the disease contributes to:

• infectious foci in the body;
• allergic factor (prolonged contact with various allergens: dust, tobacco smoke, fumes);
• low body resistance to disease;
• chronic pathologies of the pulmonary system;
• tuberculosis;
• bacteria (staphylococci, streptococci);
• hypothermia of the body.

In most cases, bronchitis has a mixed form. Therefore, treatment must be comprehensive until complete recovery.

What is bronchitis?

There is primary bronchitis. It develops as an independent disease. No pathology from other organs is observed. Secondary bronchitis is considered by the doctor as a complication against the background of the underlying disease (acute respiratory infections, pneumonia, ENT diseases).

According to the flow there are:

1. , which occurs against the background of infectious, viral diseases and with proper therapy is completely cured in 1 month.
2. , which appears if acute bronchi are treated incorrectly or insufficiently. It is protracted and leads to complications.

Depending on the cause, the disease is classified as follows:

Type of bronchitis	Short description
Allergic	It develops when an allergen enters the bronchial system. According to the classification, it falls under one of the forms of chronic bronchitis. Often the onset of the disease occurs in childhood, when the poorly developed immune system cannot resist the attack. pathogenic microbes, nutritional errors. A reaction to various components of food and the environment begins
Tuberculosis	Develops as a complication of the tuberculosis process in the body or when Koch's bacillus enters the respiratory system by airborne droplets
Viral	Diagnosed against the background of viral infections. The likelihood of getting sick increases sharply when you are in crowded places (especially during a flu epidemic)
Toxic (professional)	Occurs with constant inhalation of irritating substances. The risk group includes workers in industries such as metallurgy, chemical, mining, food, and woodworking industries. Constant exposure of dust to the surface of the bronchi leads to the blocking of bronchioles. Which, in turn, contributes to the active production of mucus, making it difficult to remove from the bronchi. In its advanced form, this bronchitis is called “terry”. In this case, in addition to cough, symptoms such as abdominal spasms, chest pain, itching are added
Bacterial	It is provoked by the presence of an infectious focus in the patient’s body (tonsillitis). This type of bronchitis often manifests itself as a complication of a viral disease. A weakened body is not able to cope with pathogenic bacteria, which begin to multiply rapidly. Most often, damage occurs by streptococci of various types, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, staphylococci
Fungal	Diagnosed extremely rarely. The disease is caused by fungi that enter the bronchi with air or from a painful focus in the body. People with low immunity who have undergone a long course of antibiotics are susceptible to this disease.

How separate species, exists . Occurs in a mixed form. The cause of the disease is viruses, bacteria, unfavorable environmental factors (tobacco smoke, industrial emissions into the atmosphere), and constant inhalation of polluted air in the workplace. At risk are workers at chemical plants, hot shops, miners, and allergy sufferers.

Let's take a closer look at each variety.

Allergic

It is one of the manifestations of allergies. Based on its symptoms, the disease is often confused with bronchial asthma. Only a doctor can make a final diagnosis. The disease manifests itself as follows:

• dry cough, mainly in the second half of the night;
• there is a relationship between the occurrence of the disease and contact with the suspected allergen (dust, animal hair, tobacco smoke, plant pollen);
• sneezing, watery eyes, and nasal discharge may occur;
• shortness of breath, difficulty breathing;
• wheezing sounds are heard in the lungs, which can be heard without a phonendoscope.

The condition of other organs is unchanged, blood and urine tests are within normal limits.

Tuberculosis

It is detected by the presence of Koch's bacillus in the body. In most cases, it occurs against the background of pulmonary tuberculosis.

Has typical symptoms:

• “barking” cough that gets worse when lying down;
• shortness of breath when walking and at rest;
• burning sensation, painful sensations behind the sternum and between the shoulder blades;
• viscous, difficult to clear sputum, often mixed with blood;
• general malaise, weakness, fatigue;
• no increase in body temperature is observed.

Most symptoms of the disease are similar to ordinary bronchitis and bronchial asthma. Incorrect diagnosis can lead to dangerous complications.

Viral

This type of bronchitis occurs as a result of the virus entering the upper respiratory tract. Having established itself on the mucous membrane, it begins to multiply vigorously, enters the bronchi, and causes an inflammatory process. To become infected, it is enough to talk to a sick person. The virus is transmitted through the air with saliva particles.

Recognized by the following characteristics:

• sudden increase in body temperature, often above 38 °C;
• muscle pain, headaches;
• discomfort in the chest;
• dry coughing, which after a few days gives way to wet, yellowish sputum that is difficult to expectorate;
• general weakness;
• shortness of breath when walking;
• breathing is difficult; when listening to the lungs, whistling and wheezing are noted.

Depending on the strain of the virus and the state of the immune system, the disease can occur in mild, moderate, or severe form.

Toxic-chemical

This type of bronchitis is also called “professional”. The cause of the disease is dust particles and chemical compounds, located in the air at plants, enterprises, factories. Occupational bronchitis has three stages of development:

1st stage:

• Shortness of breath appears only after physical activity.
• The cough is dry, rare, with a small amount of sputum.
• Sometimes dry wheezing is heard.
• General condition is satisfactory.

2nd stage:

• Frequent, paroxysmal dry cough.
• Shortness of breath even after light exertion.
• Sputum is difficult to clear, and during exacerbation it is purulent in nature.
• A chest x-ray shows changes in the pattern of the bronchial tree.
• Periodic seasonal exacerbations.

3rd stage:

• A wet cough with the discharge of large amounts of sputum occurs at any time of the day.
• Shortness of breath remains even at rest.
• Asthmatic syndrome is observed.
• X-ray shows changes in the lungs.
• Disturbances in the functioning of the heart and lungs are recorded.
• The patient feels constant weakness, fatigue, and a significant decrease in performance.
• Throughout the year, there are repeated exacerbations of the disease with a severe course.

The constant penetration of dust particles into the bronchi is the main catalyst for toxic-chemical bronchitis.

Bacterial

Often the cause of bacterial bronchitis is a history of chronic tonsillitis.

Signs of bronchitis:

• weakness, aches throughout the body;
• nausea;
• headache;
• low-grade fever (not always);
• frequent cough, especially at night;
• Difficult to separate greenish sputum with an unpleasant odor.

The condition of other organs and systems remains unchanged.

Fungal

Main symptoms of the disease:

• a sharp increase in temperature to high numbers;
• pain behind the sternum of a stabbing nature;
• long-lasting dry cough, gradually turning into a wet cough;
• sputum is difficult to clear, purulent in nature;
• malaise, constant feeling of fatigue.

Fungal bronchitis is more common in patients with AIDS.

Obstructive

A disease in which there is a violation of pulmonary ventilation, obstruction of the respiratory tract. In the development of obstructive bronchitis, acute and chronic forms of the disease are distinguished. The acute form most often occurs in young children. Chronic is diagnosed in the adult population.

Signs of acute bronchitis:

• Headache, weakness.
• Dyspnea. When a child inhales, the muscles of the neck, upper shoulder girdle, and abdomen are involved. During breathing, the wings of the nose inflate.
• The wheezing is dry, whistling, and can be easily audible without a phonendoscope.
• The cough is dry, worsening at night.
• Body temperature is slightly elevated - 37…37.5 °C.

The cause of acute bronchitis can be a common cold. Bronchitis often occurs with signs of intoxication (nausea, diarrhea, fever). In this case, the child must exclude the possibility of infectious diseases.

Signs of chronic bronchitis:

• general condition is satisfactory;
• wet cough, worse in the morning;
• sputum is mucous, purulent in nature, separated with difficulty, in small portions;
• wheezing wheezing, audible at a distance;
• shortness of breath - its severity varies widely and depends on the severity of the disease.

In the chronic form of bronchitis, there are three degrees of respiratory failure, which are determined using spirometry. Treatment of chronic bronchitis in adults can take several months.

Diagnostics

If you feel unwell, you cannot bear the disease on your feet and hope that it will go away on its own.

When should you see a doctor?

At the first signs of the disease, you must immediately see a specialist. Symptoms such as chills, shortness of breath, hacking cough, severe weakness should alert you and be a serious incentive to visit a doctor.

If your child is sick, you need to call a doctor at home. A trip to the clinic or a queue for an appointment can become an impetus for a child’s condition to worsen.

Which doctor should I contact if I have bronchitis?

The sick child will be treated by a pediatrician. An adult must make an appointment with a local physician for an initial appointment. In the future, the patient may be referred for consultation to a pulmonologist. It all depends on the effectiveness of the treatment and the general condition of the patient.

To make an accurate diagnosis, monitor the treatment process, and correctly prescribe therapy, a complex of diagnostic and treatment studies are carried out.

1. X-ray of the lungs helps identify possible diseases and changes in the lungs.
2. Bronchoscopy makes it possible to examine the bronchi from the inside and take a sputum sample for examination.
3. Spirometry is needed to determine the severity of bronchitis and the presence of respiratory failure.
4. A general blood test, urine test, and biochemical blood test make it possible to monitor the condition of the body and adjust treatment.
5. Sputum analysis allows you to exclude diseases such as oncology, tuberculosis, pneumonia.
6. An electrocardiogram (ECG) is prescribed to exclude diseases of the cardiovascular system and monitor heart function during treatment.

The doctor selects medications individually, depending on age, course of the disease, and the presence of contraindications.

Treatment of children

In childhood, bronchitis is more severe than in adults. This is due to weak muscles and an underdeveloped immune system. The baby simply does not know how to properly expectorate mucus, and this significantly reduces the ability of the bronchi to clear its accumulation.

Prescribing antibiotics to a child is indicated only as a last resort.

Let your baby drink more (tea, fruit drink, juice). Drinking plenty of fluids speeds up the removal of mucus.

If the temperature rises, give antipyretic syrup.

The room must be wet cleaned and ventilated daily. Remember that the disease loves dryness and heat.

A small patient should not be given expectorants or inhalations during an exacerbation. The baby, unable to cough up mucus, will simply choke on it.

Treatment of adolescents

IN adolescence the child does not always pay attention to the first signs of illness. He leads an ordinary life, hoping that everything will go away on its own. Therefore, adults should be attentive to changes in the child's behavior. At the first signs of the disease, you must insist on consulting a pediatrician.

Medications for adolescents are prescribed according to age.

Control over treatment rests entirely with adults. Usually, at the first signs of improvement, teenagers try to avoid taking medical procedures. Adults are responsible for ensuring that the therapeutic course is completed in full, until complete recovery.

Treatment of pregnant women

Bronchitis during pregnancy poses a threat to the woman and the fetus developing in the womb. Respiratory failure affects the well-being of the expectant mother, creates a threat of oxygen hypoxia, and stops the development of the child.

Prescription of strong antibiotics hormonal drugs to the expectant mother only in extreme cases. Most medications are contraindicated for pregnant women, so the doctor prescribes herbal teas(chest collection), cough syrup of plant origin (“Sinupret”, “”), inhalations, drink plenty of fluids.

As a last resort, you can prescribe (Amoxicillin).

Treatment of the elderly

Bronchitis for older people is a serious challenge. The condition of organs and systems is far from ideal. There is a senile “bouquet of diseases”. In the process of treating bronchitis, it is necessary to stop exacerbations of existing ailments.

Therefore, when prescribing therapy for older people, the doctor must carefully monitor the compatibility of the prescribed medications.

Treatment methods

At the first signs of illness, consult a physician. After the examination, you will be given directions for examination, consultation with specialists, and treatment will be prescribed, which includes medical supplies, inhalations, massage, diet, physiotherapy, herbal medicine.

Medications

For a quick recovery, comprehensive treatment is necessary:

• antibiotics (amoxiclav, cefotaxime, azithromycin);
• anti-inflammatory drugs (indomethacin, dexamethasone);
• mucolytics (bromhexine, ACC, ambroxol);
• expectorants (ascoril, acetylcysteine);
• bronchodilators (theotard, salbutamol, aminophylline);
• antiviral (rimantadine, cycloferon);
• antitussives (berodual, broncholitin);
• vitamin complexes.

When taking each medicine, you must adhere to the correct dosage and method of application.

Folk remedies

There are many recipes, choose according to your tastes. Don't forget about contraindications.

Complications

With a long course of the disease, serious changes occur in the lungs and bronchi. The mucous membrane changes its structure as a result of constant inflammation. This leads to complications. The reasons are usually:

• incorrect diagnosis;
• self-medication, uncontrolled use of antibiotics;
• incomplete course of therapy;
• age - in old people and infants the disease is more severe;
• a history of other chronic diseases;
• low immunity;
• smoking and alcohol abuse.

Let's look at the most common consequences.

Asthma

Most often it manifests itself as allergic (with long-term use of antibiotics), bronchial (with deep damage to the mucous membrane of the bronchial tree). The main symptoms are shortness of breath and asthma attacks, which can only be relieved with special medications. If you have asthma, you should use medications with caution and, in case of contraindications, you should replace them with analogues.

Emphysema

May occur in patients with chronic bronchitis. With this disease, gas exchange is disrupted. Air begins to accumulate in the lungs, the appearance of numerous air sacs leads to swelling of the lung tissue. The patient develops shortness of breath, cyanosis of the skin, and a feeling of lack of air. With this complication, urgent hospitalization is indicated.

Bronchopneumonia

Bronchitis causes inflammation of the lungs. The danger lies in the inability to control the inflammatory process. With low immunity and a weakened body, death is possible.

In children, complications of bronchitis lead to lifelong medication, the need to undergo rehabilitation in a sanatorium several times a year, and limitation of physical activity.

Prevention

To prevent relapse of the disease, possible complications a number of preventive measures are shown aimed at strengthening the body and the ability to resist pathogenic factors.

Preventive measures include:

• giving up bad habits (smoking, alcohol);
• strengthening the body’s immune system: systematic hardening, playing sports, eating herbal infusions, oxygen cocktails, frequent walks in the fresh air, in the forest, in the park;
• timely treatment of diseases;
• diet. Try to eat food systematically, at the same time. Avoid smoked meats, fatty, spicy, fried foods that are heavy on the stomach. Try to introduce fresh vegetables, fruits, fish, and seafood into your diet;
• constant air humidity in your home. Avoid dry air (especially in winter). Do wet cleaning in the rooms every day, control the humidity using a barometer;
• inadmissibility of hypothermia. Dress appropriately for the weather.

During the season of mass outbreaks of colds, try not to appear in crowded places.

Remember that disease is easier to prevent than to cure.

Content

Against the background of colds and acute respiratory viral infections, acute bronchitis can develop as a dangerous complication that requires immediate treatment with medications. The patient complains of impaired respiratory function and shortness of breath, suffers from high fever and other unpleasant symptoms that significantly reduce the quality of life. In order to eliminate long-term and not always successful treatment of chronic bronchitis in adults in the future, it is necessary to respond to alarming symptoms in a timely manner and not hesitate to visit an otolaryngologist or local physician.

What is bronchitis

This is an infectious disease in which damage to the bronchial mucosa is observed, the inflammatory process progresses, and the drainage function of the bronchial tree is disrupted. In the absence of timely treatment, bronchitis can develop into pneumonia and occur in a weakened body in a complicated form. To cleanse the bronchi and ensure productive separation of viscous secretions and sputum, doctors resort to official and alternative methods and recommend not to cause a health problem.

Causes

Before starting effective treatment of acute bronchitis in adults with medications, it is necessary to find out the etiology of the pathological process and eliminate the main provoking factor. More often, a characteristic illness is a complication of a cold, acute respiratory viral infection, pharyngitis, laryngitis, influenza, i.e. it progresses against the background of increased activity of pathogenic viruses, bacteria, and is of an infectious nature. Among the provoking conditions, doctors identify fungal diseases, but do not exclude the influence of other atypical factors. Among them:

Symptoms and treatment of bronchitis in adults are closely interrelated; with proper diagnosis, they ensure a speedy recovery of the patient. In order to experience the overall therapeutic effect and significantly reduce unpleasant symptoms, it is important to remember that relapse against a background of weakened immunity predominates in the following clinical pictures:

• environmental factor;
• presence of bad habits (we are talking more about smoking);
• social and household factor;
• genetic predisposition to the disease;
• chest injuries;
• weakened immune system;
• chronic infectious processes;
• complication of the underlying disease;
• harmful production.

First signs

Symptoms of bronchitis in adults do not appear immediately; the incubation period for an infectious lesion lasts from several hours to several days. Afterwards, the patient complains of feeling unwell, gradually experiences more severe symptoms, and loses ability to work. Here are the first changes in the general well-being of the patient with a progressive disease provoked by increased activity of staphylococci, streptococci, pneumococci:

• the appearance of a wet cough;
• spasms in the throat, attacks of pain;
• noticeable wheezing when breathing;
• increased body temperature;
• reduction in sleep phase;
• attacks of weakness;
• impaired sweating.

Symptoms

If you do not promptly pay attention to the first signs of bronchitis in an adult, the disease progresses, the general condition of the patient worsens sharply, and is supplemented by general signs of intoxication of the body. The patient complains of difficulty breathing, especially at night, has difficulty producing sputum, and coughing attacks may be accompanied by the presence of bloody mucus. In addition to a lingering cough reflex, symptoms of damage to the bronchopulmonary system are presented below:

• sharp deterioration in appetite;
• weight loss;
• internal sensation of heat, fever;
• high body temperature;
• increased sweating;
• severe pain behind the chest;
• the appearance of blood when trying to cough up;
• symptoms of food poisoning in the body.

Spicy

The disease progresses spontaneously. The prevailing inflammation confines the patient to bed and causes him to suffer from attacks of sore throat. It is difficult for the patient to inhale air, since each breath is additionally accompanied by a squeezing feeling in the sternum area. Coughing in this case performs a protective function, since it imitates a sharp exhalation with an attempt to free oneself from pathogenic flora. In addition to inflammation of the oral mucosa, doctors identify the following symptoms in the acute form of the disease:

• chills, fever, high body temperature;
• dry cough that becomes wet after a few days;
• mucus of a transparent, yellowish or greenish hue;
• visible blood when trying to cough up;
• sharp pain in the chest, aggravated by coughing.

Chronic

The period of acute symptoms lasts 4 days, later the characteristic illness becomes chronic, difficult to treat conservatively, or is no longer curable. The symptoms of this disease subside significantly, and intensify mainly in the relapse stage, and may be accompanied by rhinitis and tracheitis. These are the following changes in the general well-being of an adult patient:

• cough with moderate sputum production;
• unstable temperature conditions (37 - 37.5 degrees);
• pressing feeling in the chest;
• bronchospasms;
• increased fatigue;
• decreased vitality.

Bronchitis in children

If a child begins to cough heavily, especially at night, while the body temperature rises, the mucous membrane of the throat hurts and swells, doctors do not rule out acute bronchitis. The cough reflex bothers you with attacks: at first it predominates with liquid mucus, then it is supplemented by greenish sputum or upset by streaks of blood. The little patient becomes nervous and irritable, sleeps poorly and behaves extremely restlessly. Other symptoms of the pathological process in childhood are presented below:

• malaise, general weakness;
• complete lack of appetite;
• pain in the sternum when changing body position;
• various moist rales;
• more frequent migraine attacks;
• barking cough.

Kinds

Before choosing effective medications for bronchitis in adults, it is necessary to diagnose the type of disease, identify and eliminate the main provoking factor in a specific clinical picture. According to the pathological process, the disease predominates in acute or chronic form. Based on the nature of the pathogenic pathogen, doctors distinguish the following types of disease in adults:

1. Obstructive form. The attacks are accompanied by bronchospasms, and occur in the morning, after going out into the cold, during physical activity after rest.
2. Allergic form. It is non-infectious in nature and occurs as a result of increased sensitivity of the body to a potential allergen.
3. Heavy smoker's disease. Under the influence of toxins, air retention in the alveoli develops, and pulmonary emphysema progresses.
4. Recurrent form (bronchiolitis). Doctors have determined that the disease will recur more than three times during the year.
5. Tuberculosis. It is provoked by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which predominates even at the early stage of the underlying disease.
6. Viral. This is a serious complication of acute respiratory viral infections, influenza, and adenoviral diseases.
7. Toxic-chemical. The pathological process is preceded by poisoning of the body, prolonged inhalation of toxic substances and reagents.
8. Infectious. It is a complication of diseases when the etiology of the pathology is the increased activity of atypical bacteria.

Why is bronchitis dangerous in adults?

If combined treatment, which includes conservative and physiotherapeutic methods, is not applied in a timely manner, serious health problems prevail in the body, and pathological processes become irreversible, regularly recur, and sometimes fatal. An adult patient should be wary of:

• bronchopneumonia;
• pulmonary pneumonia;
• bronchotracheitis;
• tracheobronchitis;
• purulent infection;
• pulmonary hypertension;
• emphysema;
• chronic pulmonary heart disease;
• expiratory tracheal stenosis;
• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

How to diagnose

Comprehensive treatment is carried out at home, but the first step is to diagnose the characteristic ailment. A detailed examination begins with collecting anamnesis data and carefully studying the complaints of an adult patient. Next, it is necessary to differentiate the presumptive diagnosis, since many respiratory tract diseases fit such unpleasant symptoms. From laboratory tests, doctors recommend:

• general blood and urine analysis (to identify the inflammatory process at different stages of the disease);
• microbiological analysis of sputum (to determine the nature of the pathological process, the type of pathogenic agent);
• immunological and biochemical blood test (hemoglobin may increase or decrease pathologically, a sharp jump in ESR and leukocytes predominates).

From clinical, instrumental examinations for bronchitis to determine the etiology of the pathological process, it is appropriate to carry out:

• X-ray of the lungs (to assess the condition of the pulmonary structures, an enrichment of the pattern and thickening of the roots of the lungs are observed);
• bronchoscopy (to study the inner surface of the bronchi, collect materials for microbiological and histological examination);
• bronchography (for visual examination from the inside of the trachea and bronchi, further histological examination);
• echocardiography (to detect cardiac dysfunction, arrhythmias in an adult patient);
• spirometry (predominant decrease in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and the ratio of FEV to vital capacity);
• peak flowmetry (to monitor the functional functioning of the lungs and assess the state of airway patency);
• fluorography (to assess the condition of the lungs, visualize pathogenic lumens and darkening in a homogeneous structure);
• ECG, CT and MRI (on the individual recommendation of the attending physician).

Treatment of bronchitis in adults

If this disease progresses, the first thing an adult patient needs is bed rest and plenty of warm drinks to speed up the removal of sputum. The optimal dose of liquid consumed is 4 liters, no less, and we are talking not only about boiled water, but also about homemade decoctions of medicinal herbs, fruit drinks from berries and fruits. In addition, in the room in which the patient is located, it is necessary to maintain a temperature of 18 - 20 degrees, humidity - 60%. Further recommendations from specialists are presented in the following stages of treatment:

1. To increase the effectiveness of treatment, the first step is to give up bad habits and stop contact with environmental factors that provoke the disease.
2. It is necessary to exclude fatty, fried, peppered and hot foods from the daily diet, be sure to adhere to a therapeutic diet, and do not leave your stomach empty.
3. To solve the problem of impaired breathing, it is recommended to take bronchodilators orally, and if the temperature rises, antipyretics.
4. The next stage of treatment is oral administration of mucolytics and expectorants of synthetic and plant origin, vitamins.
5. With a bacterial infection of the bronchi, it is impossible to do without oral administration of systemic antibiotics in the body in full.

Drugs

With severe symptoms of the disease, an adult patient requires an integrated approach to the health problem, which includes taking representatives of several pharmacological groups at once in one treatment regimen. Treatment is provided by a therapist, pulmonologist, and, if necessary, a phthisiatrician. Features of intensive care are presented in the table below:

Name of pharmacological group	Action in the body	Effective pharmacological positions
Expectorants (synthetic origin)	help make sputum less thick and viscous, promote its productive discharge during expectoration	Lazolvan Ambrobene, Bromhexine Acetylcysteine
Bronchodilators	dilate the bronchi to facilitate mucus discharge, eliminate obstruction, respiratory failure, shortness of breath by stimulating specific receptors	Terbutaline Eufillin Salbutamol Phenterol Berodual (Bromide)
Mucolytics (herbal origin)	productively changes the concentration of sputum, facilitates the process of its removal from the respiratory tract, and makes breathing easier	Mucoltin marshmallow root, licorice Doctor Mom (syrup) Thermopsis
Antihistamines, hyposensitizing agents		Fenistil Suprastin Supradin Loratadine
Antiviral drugs	appropriate for oral use if the cause of bronchitis in adults is increased activity of pathogenic viruses	Remantadine Ribavirin Genfiron Kipferon Deoxyribonuclease
Systemic antibiotics	necessary to suppress pathogenic flora and eliminate bacterial infections from the systemic bloodstream	Clarithromycin Azithromycin Erythromycin Macropen Rovamycin
Immunostimulants	strengthen the body's immune response, promote rapid recovery	Interferon Cycloferon Polyoxidonium
Methylxanthines	for effective treatment of symptoms of bronchial asthma, in complicated clinical pictures	Theophylline Theobromine

Additional treatments

In addition to capsules and oral tablets, doctors recommend physiotherapeutic treatment methods that not only eliminate the unpleasant symptoms of the disease, but also significantly speed up the recovery process. Additional treatment measures for systemic damage to the bronchi are the following, which require a full course of 10–12 procedures:

1. Speleotherapy. The essence of the technique is to recreate an artificial microclimate as close as possible to the properties and conditions of salt caves with constant temperature and low humidity, without fluctuations in atmospheric pressure.
2. Breathing exercises. To cure the chronic or obstructive form of the disease, doctors recommend following the Buteyko or Strelnikova method. Breathing exercises make breathing easier, stimulate lung function, and speed up the removal of mucus.
3. Massage. With massaging movements of the chest, you can significantly improve the separation of sputum, even of a purulent nature, relieve impaired breathing, activate the compensatory mechanism of ventilation, and eliminate severe shortness of breath.
4. Cupping massage. Helps quickly get rid of stagnant processes with the accumulation of phlegm, has a warming effect, temporarily frees the lungs and facilitates breathing impaired by the disease.
5. Physiotherapy. In this case, we are talking about such inpatient procedures in the amount of 10-12 sessions, such as UHF therapy, magnetic therapy, electrophoresis, steam and oil inhalations.
6. Inhalation aerosol therapy. Using a nebulizer, it is recommended to use steam inhalations with soda-alkaline solutions and medicinal herbs. Carry out the procedures no more than 2 times a day; after completion, do not be exposed to drafts.
7. Phytotherapy. These are herbal ointments for topical use, herbal drops and natural medicinal compositions to alleviate the general well-being of an adult patient with bronchial damage and rapid discharge of sputum.

Treatment during pregnancy

To eliminate fetal hypoxia, the threat of miscarriage, and reduce the risk of bleeding and other negative consequences, when conservatively treating bronchitis in expectant mothers, it is important not to use a number of systemic antibiotics. X-rays during pregnancy are also contraindicated, but the following medical recommendations are valuable and safe:

1. To suppress the cough reflex, it is recommended to prepare and take breast milk, linden tea, milk with honey.
2. A pregnant woman is advised to drink more. Drinking plenty of fluids includes warm milk, herbal infusions, green tea (coffee and carbonated drinks are contraindicated).
3. Therapeutic exercise and breathing exercises help ease breathing and eliminate hypoxia during intrauterine development.

If we talk about drug therapy, in case of illness, doctors place special emphasis on the following pharmacological positions, recommended during pregnancy strictly on the recommendation of the leading gynecologist:

1. Mucoltin. This is an expectorant drug in the form of tablets, which must be taken until the alarming symptoms completely disappear. The daily dose of this mucolytic is up to 3 – 4 tablets.
2. Flemoxin Solutab. This is a fourth generation antibiotic in tablet form. In the acute form, it is recommended to take 1 tablet orally three times a day for 5 to 7 days.
3. Liquorice root. This is a syrup for oral administration. The medicine must be taken according to the instructions, preferably between meals 3 times a day. The course of intensive therapy is 10 - 14 days.

Folk remedies

Alternative medicine methods are auxiliary, accelerate the patient’s recovery process without complications or side effects, and perform a preventive function. The main thing is to choose a recipe with herbal components to which an adult patient does not have an allergic reaction in a specific clinical picture. The following folk remedies are highly effective:

1. Cranberry syrup with vodka. Grind 100 g of fresh berries into a paste, add 50 g of sugar. Stir the mixture, bring to a boil, then remove from heat and add 200 ml of vodka. Take 15 – 20 drops in the morning and evening before meals. The course of treatment is until the unpleasant symptoms disappear completely.
2. Propolis. You need to melt 20 g of bee waste product in a water bath, add 500 g of Vaseline and 100 g of cocoa butter. Keep the finished mixture on moderate heat for 10 minutes, stirring constantly. You should rub the prepared ointment on your chest at night, then wrap yourself well in a warm blanket and go to sleep. This procedure must be carried out until the alarming symptoms disappear completely.
3. Oregano. This folk remedy is effective for bronchitis, which is accompanied by severe shortness of breath. It is necessary to combine 1 part of oregano, 2 parts of coltsfoot and marshmallow. Mix the chopped herbs, then 1 tbsp. l. The finished mixture needs to be poured with 0.5 liters of boiling water and left for 20 minutes. Strain the finished infusion, take 0.5 tbsp orally warm. after meals 2 – 3 times a day.
4. Elecampane. You need 1 tbsp. l. dried and pre-chopped herb pour 1.5 tbsp. boiling water, cover with a lid and leave the broth until completely cooled. When ready, strain the mixture, heat it up, add 1 tbsp. l honey, mix thoroughly, bring to homogeneity. The finished medicine should be used daily, 200 ml 3 times for 3 to 4 weeks.
5. Radish. This remedy is especially effective with honey, as it provides a stable expectorant effect for bronchitis. To prepare, you need to combine 50 g of chopped aloe, 60 g of tops and 120 g of chopped vegetable. Pour the composition 1 tbsp. water, simmer over moderate heat for half an hour. After cooling, you need to add 30 g of honey to the finished medicine. Take 1 tbsp orally. l three times a day for 2 – 3 weeks without a break.

Consequences

If conservative treatment of this diagnosis is carried out correctly, positive dynamics in adult patients are observed after 5 – 7 days. It is important not to stop further therapy, otherwise the unpleasant symptoms of the disease will again remind you of themselves with an acute attack of coughing. If the treatment is chosen incorrectly, serious health problems cannot be ruled out. Among them:

• pneumonia;
• bronchial asthma;
• Chronical bronchitis;
• pneumonia;
• emphysema;
• the addition of a secondary infection with subsequent accumulation of purulent masses.

To enhance the overall therapeutic effect, conservative methods of treating bronchitis should be supplemented with physiotherapeutic procedures, strict bed rest and proper nutrition while following a therapeutic diet. During pregnancy, in order to exclude extensive intrauterine pathologies, it is recommended to be treated with alternative methods or take timely precautions against the background of a weakened immune system.

Prevention

To completely eliminate the unpleasant symptoms of bronchitis from your daily life, it is better for adults and children to take timely care of available preventive measures and consult with your local doctor. The recommendations below are especially valuable for seasonal vitamin deficiency and during an epidemic of colds and viral diseases. Basic preventive measures for adults are:

• final cessation of smoking and other bad habits;
• regular walks in the fresh air;
• use of respiratory protective equipment in hazardous industries;
• systematically performing simple breathing exercises;
• timely prevention of seasonal acute respiratory viral infections and colds;
• avoiding prolonged hypothermia of the body;
• visit to the bathhouse, preventive foot baths made from herbal compositions, salt solution;
• regular wet cleaning and ventilation of the room;
• using onions and garlic as local antiseptics;
• balanced diet (only healthy foods);
• strengthening the immune system using official and alternative methods;
• timely contact with a specialist.

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Attention! The information presented in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials in the article do not encourage self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can make a diagnosis and give treatment recommendations based on the individual characteristics of a particular patient.

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Bronchitis - symptoms and treatment in adults: effective medicines and remedies for the disease