Why do I have chronic bronchitis?
Chronic bronchitis is not the same as acute bronchitis, which is an infection, although both can occur at the same time. When you have chronic bronchitis, the fragile lining of your bronchial tubes that transport air to and from your lungs become seriously inflamed and irritated.
In most cases, chronic bronchitis is associated with extensive cigarette smoking or a history of exposure to secondhand smoke. But it’s also possible to have chronic bronchitis due to extended exposure of:
- Toxic gases
- Air pollution
- Chemical fumes
Industrial dust and fumes, possibly from factory work, may further increase your risk of developing chronic bronchitis.
What are the symptoms of chronic bronchitis?
One of the most common symptoms of chronic bronchitis is a persistent, heavy cough. You may even produce a yellow, green, or white mucus when you cough.
Over time, mucus builds up more and more, blocking your airways. Because of this, breathing can become difficult and you may even wake up frequently while sleeping to catch your breath. Chronic bronchitis can also lead to:
- Lethargy and fatigue
- A low-grade fever
- Chest discomfort
Plus, because the cilia, which are tiny hair-like structures in your airways that keep out germs and invaders, can also become damaged, your risk of illness and infection increases. If any of these chronic bronchitis symptoms are affecting you, the team at Texas Pediatric Specialties and Family Sleep Center can help.
How is chronic bronchitis treated?
Chronic bronchitis often turns into emphysema over time. Having chronic bronchitis and emphysema is known as a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In any case, the treatments are similar, since all conditions need to be managed for the rest of your life.
Texas Pediatric Specialties and Family Sleep Center provides personalized treatment plans for chronic bronchitis. You can manage your breathing condition with:
- Smoking cessation treatments
- Pulmonary rehabilitation to improve breathing
- A bronchodilator inhaler to open up your airways
- Oral medications to relax muscles in your airways
- A home humidifier to ease coughing and congestion
- Oral or inhaled steroid medications to make breathing easier
The team at Texas Pediatric Specialties and Family Sleep Center collaborates together to ensure you receive the most effective treatment solutions for your chronic bronchitis symptoms.
Schedule your chronic bronchitis evaluation at Texas Pediatric Specialties and Family Sleep Center today. Click on the online scheduler or call any of the four locations directly.
