Bronchial tube infection

Description

Bronchitis is an inflammation of a bronchi and mucous membrane of the respiratory tract caused by viruses and bacteria. Bronchitis can be acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by virus. Chronic bronchitis occurs most frequently in current and ex smokers.

Symptoms

Cough, phlegm (usually colored), bloody sputum, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, fever.

Overview

History of disease is being taken and medical examination is being done. X-rays of lungs may be done to exclude the lung inflammation. Sputum culture is rarely done for identifying the bacteria.

Tests

X-rays

Additional analyses

Culture of the sputum

Specialists

General Practice, Internal Medicine

Therapy

Main treatment includes bronchodilators (salbutamol, ipratropium). Other treatments may include: antibiotics, corticosteroids and / or oxygen depending on the severity and cause.