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Bronchitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the bronchial tubes. It is caused by viruses (especially influenza virus), bacteria (especially streptococcus pneumoniae, see strep throat, page 51), and several other organisms. Infection is often preceded by a cold. Early symptoms include: fever; a short, painful, dry cough with a rapid wheezing respiration; a feeling of rawness and pain in the throat and behind the breastbone; and a feeling of tightness throughout the chest. After a few days the person begins to cough up mucus and usually the other symptoms lessen. Note that asthma is often misdiagnosed as bronchitis. Therefore, bronchitis should only be diagnosed by a doctor.
The disease is transmitted directly by oral contact or airborne droplets, or indirectly by hands, tissues, eating utensils, toys or other articles freshly soiled by the nose and throat discharges of an infected person. |
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In mild cases, bed rest in a warm environment for a few days, with a light diet and nourishing drinks, may be all that is needed.
In more serious cases, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Cough medicines may help relieve symptoms. From the onset of the attack, warmth to the chest may give relief. This can be in the form of a rubber hot water bottle filled with warm (not hot) water or a medicinal chest rub. |
