DEFINITION

Bronchitis refers to inflammation of the bronchial tree (the breathing tubes within the lungs).

DESCRIPTION

Bronchitis is classified as Acute or Chronic.

Acute Bronchitis is a temporary illness that will not permanently damage the lungs. It may be infectious or irritative. Many viruses may lead to infectious Bronchitis, including influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, rubella, measles, whooping cough and chlamydia. Irritative Bronchitis may be caused by inhaling toxic fumes from various dusts, acids, solvents, chlorine, tobacco or other environmental gases. Secondary bacterial infections such as pneumonia may set in during Bronchitis.

Chronic Bronchitis is characterised by a long term, productive cough. Other causes of chronic cough, such as infection, heart failure or lung cancer, must be ruled out. Chronic Bronchitis is often caused by smoking or air pollution. Chronic Bronchitis often occurs alongside emphysema and may also be called Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD. In chronic Bronchitis, the bronchi become swollen and inelastic. The mucus is thick and dry and the cilia action (the hairs which remove waste and bacteria) is reduced. This results in retained Mucus and increases susceptibility to infection. As the Mucus accumulates, the available oxygen exchange area of the lung is reduced, resulting in breathing difficulties.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Acute Bronchitis.
- The first signs are those of upper respiratory infection: runny nose, mild fever, sore throat, feeling unwell, slight cough.
- As the illness progresses, the cough becomes moist and rattling, with thick mucus production and pain behind the chest when coughing.
- Fever may reach up to 38.8 degrees Celsius (102 degrees Fahrenheit) and lasts for 3-5 days.
- The cough may continue for some time, but will usually resolve within 6 weeks.

Chronic Bronchitis.
- Persistent productive cough lasting for more than 3 months and recurring over a period of 2 or more years.
- Difficulty breathing and wheezing
- Cyanosis (blue tinge to lips and fingernails)
- Headache, worse first thing in the morning, due to insufficient oxygen.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Always consult your Doctor for diagnosis and advice. In no way is this information intended to replace the advice of a medical practitioner.
- Most cases of acute Bronchitis will clear up over a period of days without the need for special treatment. If the fever lasts more than 5 days, or the symptoms are severe, see your Doctor.
- Immunisation is available against many of the viruses that cause Bronchitis. See the Immunisation Schedule - AUST topic on the Healthpoint.
- Antibiotics may be prescribed if a bacterial infection is present. These drugs are not effective against viruses.
- Chronic Bronchitis can be a serious condition and requires management by a Doctor specialising in Respiratory medicine.
- Wear a filtered mask over the nose and mouth when exposure to irritating substances is likely (such as lawn mowing).
- Regular aerobic exercise can help improve lung function.

PHARMACIST'S ADVICE

Ask your Pharmacist for advice:
1) Follow the Diet Hints.
2) Cough mixtures can help clear mucus and relieve chest congestion. There are several brands available. Check with your Pharmacist, as there are many different ingredients in cough mixtures, which may not all be suitable for Bronchitis.
3) Chest rubs can help stop any coughing spasms. Choose a mild brand for children as some rubs can burn the skin.
4) Identify and avoid any environmental triggers that aggravate Bronchitis.
5) Smoking should be stopped.Ask your Pharmacist for suggestions to help break the habit.
6) Paracetamol may be given for relief of pain and fever.
7) Fluids are needed to prevent dehydration. Drink at least three litres per day of water, dilute fruit juice, soup and herbal tea. Your Pharmacist can supply a water filter jug.
8) A vaporiser can moisten the air and reduce the cough. Ask your Pharmacist how to use a vaporiser.

DIET HINTS

- Drink plenty of fluids. Pure water, herbal teas, soups and diluted vegetable juices are recommended. Carrot and ginger are excellent for the respiratory tract.
- Include garlic and onions in the diet. These are natural antibiotics and may help reduce infection and inflammation.
- Foods high in vitamin A are thought to promote healing, strengthen lung tissue and boost the immune system. Sources include carrots, mangoes, parsley, spinach and pumpkin.
- Foods rich in vitamin C may boost the immune system, reduce infection and promote healing. Sources include lemons, grapefruit, oranges, limes, grapes, strawberries, cherries and pawpaw.
- Avoid mucus forming foods such as dairy foods, heavy starches, processed foods, sweets, white flour and saturated fats.
- Herbal teas such as plantain, thyme, liquorice and elderflower are thought to be useful for bronchial infections. Use honey instead of sugar as a sweetener.

VITAMINS/MINERALS/HERBS

Nutritional supplements may be of benefit if dietary intake is inadequate.
- Vitamin C is a major antioxidant present in the airway surface liquid of the lung. It may also reduce infection and inflammation.
- Cod liver oil is an excellent supplement as it has high amounts of vitamin A and D which are important for healthy immune function and also aid in restoration of the mucous membranes. Cod liver oil also contains essential fatty acids which are anti-inflammatory.
- Garlic and echinacea in high doses can be taken to help fight off infection.
- Golden seal can be taken to help in the restoration of the Mucous membranes.
- Myrrh, mullein, slippery elm, thyme, elder, horseradish and fenugreek are well known for their benefits to the respiratory tract .

AROMATHERAPY

The listed essential oils are suggested for the relief of Bronchitis. The most specific oils are shown in capitals.
Aniseed, BENZOIN, Cajeput, Cedarwood, EUCALYPTUS, FRANKINCENSE, Ginger, Grapefruit, Lavender, Jasmine, MYRRH, Pine, Thyme.
Application
MASSAGE: Blend any single listed essential oil or combination of several essential oils - 5 drops (total) to 10mL (1/3 fl oz) vegetable carrier oil such as Sweet Almond, Apricot Kernel. Apply twice daily to chest, upper back and throat with gentle massage.
STEAM INHALATION: In a bowl containing one litre of steaming water, add 5 drops (total) of essential oil; cover head with towel and inhale while leaning over bowl. Keep eyes closed.
VAPORISATION: Add 5 drops(total) single essential oil or combination of several essential oils listed to water in oil burner.

These recommendations are for an adult. For infants over 3 months and up to 2 years, use 1/4 dose i.e.: 1 drop to 10ml (1/3 fl oz) ; children 2 -12 years and during pregnancy use 1/2 dose.

Provided by