BRONCHITIS: is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to the lungs. It can be acute or chronic

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to the lungs. It can be acute or chronic.

Acute Bronchitis:

- Usually caused by a viral infection (common cold, flu)
- Symptoms: cough, mucus production, wheezing, chest discomfort
- Typically resolves on its own within 1-2 weeks

Chronic Bronchitis:

- Long-term inflammation of the bronchial tubes
- Symptoms: persistent cough, mucus production, wheezing, shortness of breath
- Often associated with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

1. BRONCHITIS BY: MUTEGEKI ADOLF

2. Bronchitis is the inflammation of the bronchial tubes (bronchi), which carry air to and from the lungs. It can be classified as acute or chronic based on the duration and recurrence. Aetiology (Causes 1. Acute Bronchitis: Viral Infections: Most commonly caused by viruses like influenza, rhinovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Bacterial Infections: Less common but may be caused by bacteria such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae , Chlamydia pneumoniae , and Bordetella pertussis . Environmental Factors: Exposure to tobacco smoke, air pollution, dust, and chemicals can trigger or exacerbate acute bronchitis.

3. 2. Chronic Bronchitis: Chronic Smoking: The leading cause, particularly in long-term smokers. Environmental and Occupational Exposures: Long-term exposure to air pollution, chemical fumes, or dust. Genetic Factors: Conditions like alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency can predispose individuals to chronic bronchitis.

4. Pathophysiology 1. Acute Bronchitis: The infection or irritant causes inflammation of the bronchial tubes, leading to increased mucus production and swelling of the bronchial walls. This results in narrowed airways, leading to symptoms like coughing and difficulty breathing. 2. Chronic Bronchitis: Chronic exposure to irritants like tobacco smoke leads to persistent inflammation, causing hyperplasia of mucus-secreting glands and goblet cells in the bronchi. This results in chronic cough, excessive mucus production, and airflow obstruction. Over time, the bronchial walls may become thickened and the cilia, which help clear mucus, may be damaged, further impairing mucus clearance.

5. Clinical Presentations A. Acute Bronchitis: Cough: Persistent and productive of sputum, often clear or white, but can become yellow or green if secondary bacterial infection occurs. Sputum Production: May increase during the course of the illness. Wheezing and Shortness of Breath: Due to narrowed airways. Chest Discomfort: A feeling of tightness or pain in the chest. Low-grade Fever and Malaise: Often accompanying symptoms. Fatigue and Sore Throat: Common, especially in viral infections

6. B. Chronic Bronchitis: Chronic Cough: Lasting at least three months in two consecutive years. Sputum Production: Daily production of sputum, often worse in the morning. Dyspnea: Progressive shortness of breath, particularly with exertion. Wheezing: Common in more advanced stages. Cyanosis: Bluish discoloration of the lips and skin due to low oxygen levels in severe cases.

7. Investigations Acute Bronchitis: Clinical Diagnosis: Often based on history and physical examination. Chest X-ray: Usually normal, but may be done to rule out pneumonia or other conditions. Sputum Culture: Rarely needed but may be considered if bacterial infection is suspected. Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): Generally not required in acute cases but may be useful in recurrent cases to rule out asthma or COPD.

8. Chronic Bronchitis: Chest X-ray or CT Scan: To assess the extent of lung damage and rule out other conditions like lung cancer or emphysema. Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): To assess airflow obstruction and determine the severity of the disease. Arterial Blood Gas (ABG): In advanced cases, to evaluate oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood. Sputum Analysis: To check for infection or other underlying causes.

9. Management Acute Bronchitis: Symptomatic Treatment: Rest and Hydration: Encouraged to help the body recover. Antipyretics and Analgesics: Such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and pain relief. Cough Suppressants: For troublesome dry cough, though they should be used sparingly. Bronchodilators: May be prescribed if wheezing is present. Antibiotics: Rarely needed unless there is a strong suspicion of bacterial infection. Give Amoxicillin 500 mg every 8 hours Avoidance of Irritants: Such as smoke, dust, and strong odors.

10. Chronic Bronchitis: Smoking Cessation: The most important intervention to slow disease progression. Bronchodilators: To relieve symptoms and improve airflow (e.g., beta-agonists Like Salbutomol 4 mg tds ). Inhaled Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation in moderate to severe cases. Oxygen Therapy: For patients with significant hypoxemia. Pulmonary Rehabilitation: To improve exercise tolerance and quality of life. Antibiotics: For acute exacerbations, especially if bacterial infection is suspected. Vaccinations: Annual influenza vaccination and pneumococcal vaccination to reduce the risk of infections.

11. Prevention Smoking Cessation: Key to preventing both acute and chronic bronchitis. Vaccination: Annual influenza vaccine and pneumococcal vaccine to prevent respiratory infections. Avoidance of Respiratory Irritants: Such as tobacco smoke, air pollution, and occupational exposures. Hand Hygiene: Regular handwashing to reduce the spread of infections. Healthy Lifestyle: Including proper nutrition, regular exercise, and avoiding overcrowded places during flu season. This comprehensive approach helps manage bronchitis effectively while preventing complications and recurrent episodes.

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