1. What treatment/medication will I be prescribed for my Bronchitis?
Though this will depend on your doctor, the treatment can be generalised into:
Treatment of Acute Bronchitis:
The treatment is usually done to tackle the symptoms since it has a virus orientation. So the doctor may prescribe Decongestants to open up the nasal passage, expectorants to loosen the thick phlegm and mucus build up, cough suppressants to soothe the hacking and lingering cough, and Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs such as aspirins, paracetamols etc to treat the fever and sore throat. Antibiotics are rarely given. The patient is asked to rest, drink plenty of fluids and breathe warm and humid air. Apart from this the patient is advised to stay away from irritants/pollutants, smoking, alcohol and caffeine until fully recovered. Usage of a vaporizer and hot baths is also recommended.
Treatment of Chronic Bronchitis:
This would include the usage of antibiotics. Inhalation of corticosteroids to minimise respiratory epithelium damage is also recommended. Bronchospasms are treated using bronchodilators such as Beta-Adrenergic Agonists and low oxygen levels in the blood may be tackled by usage of oxygen cylinders. Avoidance of irritants such as smoke, dust, pollutants, tobacco, and alcohol is recommended.
2. What are the prevention tips for Bronchitis?
• Repeated washing of hands especially before eating or drinking
• Practice of personal hygiene
• Taking of prescribed medication correctly
• Avoiding areas which are known to have air pollution and suspended irritants
• Limiting or avoiding exposure to infected patients
• Getting pneumonia shots prescribed by your doctor
• Using mask to cover your mouth and nose of in a risky area
3. What are the risk factors involved?
Factors such as exposure to air pollutants, suspended air irritants, smoke, chemical fumes, toxic gases, dust etc increase your risk of coming down with Bronchitis. Other risk factor includes the phenomenon where stomach juices are repeatedly pushed up and back unto your oesophagus. Weak immunity always plays an abeting role in most diseases. Cigarette smoke, alcohol and caffeine use during illness are all added risk factors. Repeated bouts of influenza and rib fractures also contribute to increasing your risk.
4. What complications may arise before I am fully recovered?
Although a single episode of Bronchitis is not a cause for alarm, but you must watch out of you are having repeated bouts. It may be a signal for Asthma or any type of lung disorder. If you have been diagnosed with Chronic Bronchitis and are smoking, you may be risking types of lung cancers.
5. Are there any alternative medications that I could consider?
There are a few successful alternative therapies that find success in some Bronchitis patients. These include:
• The South African herb, Pelargonium sidoides has shown some effectiveness in alleviating symptoms of acute bronchitis.
• Herbal expectorants used in Ayurveda such as Trifala, Adrakh, Amla, Sunthi etc have also shown benefit.
• Herbs such as Thyme, Eucalyptus, Anise, Pine and Garlic act as direct expectorants and work by physically encountering the respiratory tissue.
• Relaxing and Stimulating Natural expectorants may also be used.
• Homeopathic has it’s own artillery of chemicals to treat Bronchitis.
However, it is advisable that you consult your doctor before you take up any of these treatment options.
ALL INFORMATION GIVEN IN THIS ADVOCACY SHEET IS TO BE CHECKED WITH YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE IMPLEMENTING THEM OR TAKING THEM AS STANDARD OR VERIFIED.
Mamta Singh is a published author of the books Migraines for the Informed Woman (Publisher: Rupa & Co.) and the upcoming Rev Up Your Life! (Publisher: Hay House India). She is also a seasoned business, creative and academic writer. She is a certified fitness instructor, personal trainer & sports nutritionist through IFA, Florida USA. Mamta is an NCFE-certified Holistic Health Therapist SAC Dip U.K. She is the lead writer and holds Expert Author status in many well-received health, fitness and nutrition sites. She runs her own popular blogs on migraines in women and holistic health. Mamta holds a double Master's Degree in Commerce and Business. She is a registered practitioner with the UN recognised Art of Living Foundation. Link: http://www.migrainingjenny.wordpress.com and http://www.footstrike.wordpress.com