Bronchitis literally means windpipe inflammation. It is a respiratory disorder caused by the swelling of the windpipe, along with the small and large bronchi, which is caused due to bacterial or viral infection. The underlying cause can be environmental pollution or smoking habits.There are two types of bronchitis problem, one is acute and the other chronic. Of these chronic is the most dangerous. The duration for acute bronchitis is short and its causes are bacteria or virus infection. The second type, which is the chronic bronchitis is caused by abnormal breathing habits, which can be dangerous in the long run.
Identifying Chronic Bronchitis
The major symptom for this problem is coughing and expelling sputum for 3 months annually. If this problem persists for two consecutive years then, the person is suffering from chronic bronchitis. Other symptoms are excessive creation of mucus, cough and dysnea along with breathing problems during physical exertion.
This is also accompanied by edema of the feet, coronary problems, bluish skin or lips and abnormal signs in the lungs. Generally, these symptoms do not persist for long and can be repeated with another stroke of abnormal breathing pattern.
If this problem is serious, then respiratory disorder occurs even when the patient is resting. The bronchitis might reach its terminal level, due to infections caused by dust or smoking. If it gets serious, it might result into respiratory failure.
However, symptoms of chronic bronchitis are similar to those of any respiratory disorder such as sinusitis, asthma, TB, and pulmonary emphysema. Hence, it is essential to diagnose the problem immediately.
Medical tests for the problem
Pulmonary function test:
This test finds the lungs capacity to exchange oxygen for carbon dioxide. This test is conducted using peak flow monitoring (PFM) and spirometry. The latter is a medical tool to observe the functioning of the lungs, while the former observes the speed of respiration. PFM also can analyze steps to control the problem.
Another method is the pulse oximetry that measures the content of oxygen in the blood stream.
Many a times chest x-rays are also done. They help understanding the internal clotting, if any, of the organs, bones and tissues.
Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) can analyze the lungs capacity to supply oxygen to the body and the acid content by conducting a blood test.
Computed Tomography or CT Scan can help get a comprehensive image of the various affected organs.
Summary
Chronic bronchitis can be a major disturbance for a sufferer to conduct their everyday tasks. Breathing is essential for a person’s body to function. Hence, a slight difference or effort in the respiration can cause extra expenditure of energy.
