This disease is as a result of the inflammation of the large bronchi also known as the medium sized airways. If left untreated, it can progress to pneumonia. Over time, that is, months of constant irritation of the airways, the condition regresses to asthma. Bronchitis disease symptoms, include an expectorant cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, fever, headaches, wheezing and occasional chest pains. The air passages are blocked by the mucous piling up in them.
The causes of a bronchitis disease are viruses, bacteria and exposure to dangerous fumes. This includes smoking. According to the cause of the disease, different treatment options are available. Bronchitis disease caused by bacteria is treated using antibiotics, expectorant cough syrup and bronchodilaters. Those caused by viruses do not require treatment using antibiotics. The symptoms usually disappear on their own after a few days.
Bronchitis disease starts with a dry cough. This cough is usually severe and can wake you at night. After a few days, the cough becomes productive. This is followed by the other symptoms of bronchitis. These symptoms usually last for about a week or less.
The expectorant cough can last for up to a month. If it lasts for more than a month, more diagnosis is required. This should be done by an ear, mouth and nose doctor. This is to rule out other conditions such as asthma.
When bronchitis disease is not fully treated, it can progress to other health issues. It is therefore very important to finish the prescribed dosage even if the symptoms have all gone. This ensures full treatment.