Bronchitis is often dismissed as a simple cough that will resolve on its own. Many people ignore the symptoms, especially if the cough is mild or accompanied by phlegm. If left untreated, bronchitis can develop into a more serious health problem, directly affecting breathing and daily activities.
Long-term or recurring bronchitis can lead to chronic bronchitis. At this stage, inflammation of the airways can disrupt oxygen flow to the body. This can also cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and difficulty carrying out normal activities.
What is Bronchitis?
Bronchitis is an inflammation or irritation of the bronchi, the airways that carry air in and out of the throat and lungs. Bronchitis causes excess mucus production, narrowing the airways and obstructing airflow.
Bronchitis conditions can be caused by:
- Infections caused by viruses or bacteria
- Exposure to cigarette smoke
- Air pollution, dust, and certain chemicals
If this exposure occurs continuously, the inflammation can progress to chronic bronchitis and persist for a long time. Furthermore, lung function will gradually decline, making sufferers more susceptible to respiratory problems such as tuberculosis (TB) or other lung diseases.
The Difference Between Bronchitis and the Flu or a Common Cough
Bronchitis is often confused with the flu or a common cough due to similar symptoms. However, these three conditions are distinct. Here are the differences:
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Flu
Flu is usually caused by a viral infection that attacks the upper respiratory tract and is characterized by nasal congestion, fever, muscle aches, and a mild cough that usually resolves within a few days.
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Cough
Coughing is a natural reaction of the body to clear the respiratory tract of various foreign particles, such as dust, microbes, or viruses so that the throat is kept clean and the breathing process becomes smoother.
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Bronchitis
Bronchitis is an inflammation directly of the bronchial tubes, causing the cough to be more severe, produce phlegm, and last longer. Furthermore, bronchitis is accompanied by shortness of breath and a feeling of chest tightness, which is rare with the flu or a common cough.
Common Symptoms of Bronchitis
Bronchitis symptoms can develop slowly and are often overlooked. Some common symptoms include:
- A cough with phlegm that lasts a long time , the phlegm is usually green, white, or yellow.
- Shortness of breath , especially during activity.
- Chest feels heavy or uncomfortable.
- The body easily gets tired and weak even when doing light activities.
- Mild fever that lasts a few days.
If these symptoms persist for at least 3 months a year and last for 2 consecutive years, it is likely that bronchitis has developed into a more serious condition or chronic bronchitis.
Complications That Can Occur Due to Bronchitis
Untreated bronchitis can lead to various complications, particularly affecting the respiratory system. Some potential complications include:
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) , which causes permanent narrowing of the airways.
- Respiratory failure in severe cases , especially in the elderly or those with other chronic diseases.
- Repeated relapses , which cause health to decline and disrupt daily activities.
These complications not only impact physical health, but also the productivity and comfort of the sufferer's life.
How to Prevent Bronchitis and Its Impact
Prevention of bronchitis, especially chronic bronchitis, can be done by changing lifestyle and adopting healthy habits, including:
- Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.
- Avoid exposure to air pollution and harmful chemicals.
- Keep your hands clean to prevent infection.
- Use a mask when in dusty or polluted environments.
- Maintain your immune system with a balanced nutritional intake and adequate rest.
These steps can help protect the respiratory tract and reduce the risk of chronic inflammation.
When to See a Doctor?
Bronchitis is a serious condition whose symptoms persist or recur frequently. A persistent cough with phlegm, difficulty breathing during activity, chest tightness, and fatigue are all signs that your respiratory tract needs medical attention.
Consult a doctor immediately if bronchitis symptoms persist for a long time, worsen, or interfere with daily activities. An examination will allow the doctor to determine the cause of the bronchitis and provide appropriate medical treatment before it progresses to acute bronchitis and serious complications.
By consulting a doctor early, the risk of developing long-term respiratory problems can be reduced, allowing you to resume your activities comfortably and safely. Seek medical attention promptly and schedule a consultation to prevent bronchitis from progressing to more serious complications.
Article written by Dr. Taruli Loura Batubara, Sp.P (Pulmonary & Respiratory Specialist at EMC Cibitung Hospital).