Treatment for Asthmatic Bronchitis

Asthmatic bronchitis is typically caused by external agents such as viruses entering the respiratory airways and causing irritation. It occurs in people who have asthma, which weakens the bronchial tubes or immune system and makes them more susceptible to developing respiratory infections. Treatment for asthmatic bronchitis is simple but must be addressed to prevent further discomfort or damage.

Types

Asthmatic bronchitis is either acute or chronic. Acute is typically accompanied by viral or bacterial infection in the lining of the bronchial tubes. It lasts a few days to a few weeks, depending on the severity of the infection. Chronic asthmatic bronchitis is considered much more serious because the infection time generally runs anywhere from three months to two years.

Significance

During the course of the respiratory infection, the body continues to produce high levels of phlegm that congests bronchial tubes and is expelled from the body via coughing. Because asthmatic medication has little to no affect on the symptoms caused by asthmatic bronchitis, alternative methods of healing must be instigated to speed recovery.

Symptoms

Asthmatic bronchitis is generally accompanied by coughing, shortness of breath and wheezing. Other symptoms may include fatigue, headaches, mild fevers and chest pain. Individuals with asthmatic bronchitis also have reported the sensation or sound of rattling in their chest while they were breathing.

Treatment

For asthmatic bronchitis caused by bacterial infection, antibiotics can kill bacteria in the lungs and prevent further damage. For infections caused by viruses, rest as much as possible and avoid caffeinated or alcoholic drinks to allow the body's immune system to run its course without interference. Humidity has been known to lessen the symptoms of asthmatic bronchitis by loosening mucus located in the bronchial tubes. Relocating to a more humid environment may improve your condition. Room humidifiers and hot towels can serve a similar and effective purpose.

If symptoms worsen, seek a doctor's advice. Hospitalization, medical monitoring and steroids may be required to lessen the severity of an infection. Most symptoms of asthmatic bronchitis will not require hospitalization and will lessen over time with prescription medication or as the immune system adjusts the illness.

Prevention and /Solution

Because asthma tends to weaken or deteriorate respiratory airways, preventive measures often yield limited results. Avoid airborne irritants such as pollution and secondhand smoke, as these will likely aggravate symptoms. Under no circumstances should you smoke or chew tobacco if you have asthma, as these can often lead directly to lung infection.