Acute bronchitis, also known as acute bronchitis, is a short-term inflammatory disease of the bronchi, usually of viral origin.
Bronchitis affects the lower part of the respiratory system, the bronchial tubes that lead the airways to the lungs.
During the course of the disease, the walls of the bronchial tubes can become inflamed and swollen, leading to breathing difficulties and coughing. Acute bronchitis is most often caused by a viral infection, such as influenza or rhinovirus. However, less commonly it can also be caused by a bacterial infection.
The most common symptoms of the disease include:
Cough: Severe, sometimes productive coughing is the most common symptom and can usually persist for a long time.
Breathing difficulty: swollen bronchial tubes and phlegm can make breathing more difficult.
Chest pain: Chest pain due to coughing and difficulty breathing may be common.
Fever and other flu-like symptoms: viral bronchitis is often associated with fever, sore throat, runny nose.
Acute bronchitis usually heals on its own within a few weeks and basic treatment focuses on symptomatic management. In this case, rest, fluid intake, the use of expectorants or antipyretics may help. If the illness appears to be bacterial in origin, the doctor may also prescribe antibiotics.
Treatment of acute bronchitis usually focuses on symptomatic and home management, without any specific medical intervention.
Rest: It is important to give the body time to rest and recover. The body needs time to recover and rest.
Fluid intake: drink enough fluids, such as water, herbal teas. Adequate hydration can help to dilute secretions and relieve coughing.
Cough suppressants: for dry coughs, expectorant syrups or drop antiseptics can be used to relieve coughing fits and help clear secretions more easily. In the case of a wet cough, expectorants may not be necessary as phlegm can be easily coughed up.
Antipyretics: for high fever, the use of antipyretics may be recommended.
Vaporisation: vaporisation can help relieve respiratory symptoms.
Ventilation: it is recommended to ventilate the home frequently to improve air quality. Avoid tobacco smoke and air pollution.
Reducing pain and inflammation: ibuprofen or acetaminophen may relieve sore throat and inflammation.
The relationship between chronic bronchitis and smoking.
Smoking is a major risk factor for the development and worsening of chronic bronchitis.
A brief explanation of chronic bronchitis: chronic bronchitis, also known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is a long-term respiratory condition characterised by persistent inflammation of the bronchial tubes and accompanying airway obstruction (airflow limitation). The disease develops gradually and symptoms worsen over time.
Smoking and chronic bronchitis: smoking is one of the most important risk factors for the development and worsening of chronic bronchitis. Harmful compounds in cigarette smoke, such as nicotine and a number of carcinogens, irritate the airways and contribute to the development and worsening of bronchitis. During smoking, the walls of the bronchial tubes can become chronically inflamed and swollen, leading to breathing problems and coughing.
The link between smoking and COPD: In addition to chronic bronchitis, smoking is also a major risk factor for other forms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), such as emphysema. Emphysema results in damage to the air spaces (alveoli) in the lungs and leads to a progressive loss of lung function. COPD is one of the leading causes of smoking-related deaths worldwide.
Smoking cessation and COPD management: the most important step in reducing the risk of COPD and preventing the disease from getting worse is to stop smoking or never start. Stopping smoking can significantly reduce the risk of COPD and slow the progression of the disease. Once COPD has developed, it can be treated with medication, pulmonary rehabilitation and other therapeutic methods.
How can balms help with bronchitis?
Ointments and salves can help relieve symptoms and promote healing. It is important to note, however, that depending on the severity of bronchitis, medical treatment may also be needed.
Ointments and salves can usually be used to treat bronchitis in the following ways:
Inhalation: a popular way of using balms is inhalation. A popular method of inhalation is to inhale. This can help relieve sore throats and coughs.
Chest and back rub: Apply balm to the chest and lower back. Gently massage the balm into the skin. The warm and moist effect can relieve coughing and help get rid of congestion.
The natural herbal extracts and essential oils in PulmoFresh balm can help ease breathing, soothe coughs and relieve the unpleasant symptoms of colds.
The use of PulmoFresh herbal balm is recommended for colds, coughs and cold complaints!
Instructions for use
For massage, rubbing
It is recommended to use 3-5 times a day, using a finger-sized amount. The balm should be applied to the chest and back area, then thoroughly massaged and rubbed in. It is more effective before going to bed, as the essential oils released by the balm, when inhaled, promote restful sleep
For inhalation
Add 1 teaspoon of PulmoFresh balsam to half a litre of hot water and mix well. This will create a vapour which should be inhaled for about 20 minutes.
