Acute Bronchitis And Health Risk

By Bob Miller

There are basically two classifications for bronchitis, chronic and acute. In simple terms bronchitis means there is some sort of inflammation in the bronchial tubes. You may be coughing quite a bit as your body tries to rid the airways of fluid. If this mucus becomes cloudy or yellow-green in color it means you have a secondary infection which may require antibiotics. It usually remains clear during an attack of acute bronchitis.

Acute bronchitis is caused by a virus. This means that it will not last too long, approximately a week. Chronic bronchitis is long term. Basically it means that it is a condition from which you may have periods of relief, but it will keep coming back over and over. You can get acute bronchitis on top of having chronic bronchitis. Viral infections are contagious and you can get acute bronchitis similar to the way you catch a cold of the flu.

Since it is a viral infection antibiotics will not help clear it up. There are some things to help your body recover from acute bronchitis more quickly. Drink lots of clear liquids, this will help to carry the virus out of the body and also keep you hydrated so your body can fight it off.

Get lots of rest. You may feel extremely tired as your body is working to rid itself of the intrusive virus. Resting will help relieve symptoms like shortness of breath and a tight chest. It will help keep wheezing to a minimum as well.

Chances are you will run a low-grade fever. This means it should not ever go over 101 degrees. If it goes above 101 it is likely that you have a secondary infection or condition that needs the attention of a health care professional. You may take a medication which will help relieve any fever you may experience. This can be purchased over the counter without a prescription.

Try to stay away from others who may be susceptible to catching acute bronchitis. It is spread like any other viral infection. Therefore it can be given from one person to another through casual contact. Stay away from those who have a higher risk of infection such as the elderly or small children.

To prevent catching acute bronchitis, wash your hands frequently. Also use hand sanitizer quite a lot. These two healthy habits may protect you from getting acute bronchitis.

About the Author:

0 komentar:

Posting Komentar