Bronchitis Definition

Bronchitis is the inflammation of the airways otherwise known as large bronchi. The inflammation is caused by pathogens building up in the walls of the bronchi. These pathogens are bacteria and viruses. Bronchitis definition is getting to know what the disease is. The condition if not taken care of can lead to other health problems such as pneumonia.

The symptoms of bronchitis are expectorant cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, fever, fatigue and occasional chest pains. As a result of constant coughing, the chest pains can be felt. Wheezing and shortness of breath are as a result of blockage in the airways. Bronchitis definition also involves knowing the exact cause of an attack.

The two major causes are bacteria and viral infections. The most common one is viral infection. These usually disappear on their own after a few days. Bacteria infections need to be medicated using antibiotics and an expectorant cough syrup. These two work together to get rid of the bacteria in the respiratory system.

In bronchitis definition, you also get to know how a diagnosis is done. This is by taking a blood and sputum test. This determines the kind of infection you have and what pathogen is that is causing it. An x-ray can be done to further tell if the infection has progressed to pneumonia. If so, proper medication will be given to completely heal the disease.

Bronchitis definition lets you know the importance of finishing the prescribed dose. This is done even if the symptoms may have completely gone. This makes sure that all the pathogens are effectively destroyed. Chances of a reinfection are therefore lowered.

By: Mercy Maranga

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Mercy Maranga Reports on Health and Fitness issues. Visit Her Site here for more information on bronchitis and its management Causes of Bronchitis