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| Chronic bronchitis |
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Another in the group of lung diseases
called COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), chronic
bronchitis refers to bronchial tubes (airways) that have become
irritated and inflamed. This can cause the tubes to become
narrow, which obstructs airflow. It also results in near-constant,
mucus-producing coughing that lasts three months out of a
year for two years in a row. This form of irritated coughing
is how chronic bronchitis is differentiated from acute bronchitis.
Production of too much mucus can cause the lining of the bronchial
tubes to thicken. Airflow is affected, the lungs are weakened
and the potential for infection increases.
Some sufferers dismiss this form of lung disease, thinking
the cause of the coughing is merely a series of bad colds
(which get worse and last longer) or “smoker’s
cough.” They become accustomed to the irritation as
time goes on and fail to seek medical attention until the
lungs are so damaged that severe respiratory or cardiac problems
threaten.
Over 11 million Americans were diagnosed with chronic bronchitis
in 2000, according to the American Lung Association, with
the highest number being over 45 years old. More women are
affected than men.
Cause: As in lung cancer and emphysema, smoking is the primary
reason people suffer from chronic bronchitis. Other causes
include exposure to allergens, irritants and chemicals in
the air, low birth weight, repeated lung infections and in
some cases genetic factors.
Symptoms: In addition to the constant coughing (worse
in the morning and in cold, damp weather), as much as an ounce
of yellow mucus may be coughed up on a daily basis. Wheezing,
shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, weight loss,
swelling in the legs, coughing up blood, morning headaches,
fever and body pain are also signs that may indicate chronic
bronchitis.
Diagnosis: A prolonged history of coughing confirms
the diagnoses. In addition, chest X-rays provide clues as
well as spirometry, pulmonary function tests and exercise
tests to assess lung volume and airflow. Arterial blood gases
are tested to see how much oxygen and carbon dioxide are in
the blood. An ECG (echocardiogram) or EKG (electrocardiogram)
may be ordered to see how well the heart is working and to
rule out cardiac disease.
Treatment: Stopping smoking is the first line of attack.
Beyond that, antibiotics can help, though they may not be
taken continually. Bronchodilators in pill, spray or inhaler
form can help relax airways so that air can move freely through.
Maintaining a nutritious diet, engaging in regular exercise,
minimizing stress and generally living a healthy lifestyle
will also help reduce the effects of chronic bronchitis.
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