What Is The Difference Between Chronic And Acute Bronchitis

According to Wikipedia, Bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchial tube (that carries air to your lungs) that causes coughing. Bronchitis usually begins as an infection in the nose, ears, throat, or sinuses and gradually makes its way down to the bronchial tubes. Though Bronchitis can happen at any age our senior loved ones are more susceptible to Bronchitis than adults or children.

Symptoms of Bronchitis:-

The most common symptoms of Bronchitis are:

• Coughing with mucus

• Wheezing

• Chest pain or discomfort

• Shortness of breath

• Low fever

Bronchitis can either be Acute or Chronic. Both causes constricted airways and coughing resulting in shortness of breath due to inadequate oxygen supply.

Today, let us have a close look at the difference between Chronic and Acute Bronchitis to give you a better understanding of this disease:-

Chronic Bronchitis:-

Chronic Bronchitis is a serious long-term medical condition that occurs when the lining of the bronchial tubes is inflamed and constantly irritated. It is considered Chronic Bronchitis if you have a cough with mucus that lasts for at least three months a year and for consecutive two years. Bacteria and viruses can easily infect the bronchial tubes worsening the condition further.

• The main causes of chronic Bronchitis are smoking and getting exposed to secondhand smoke.

• Age also contributes to the cause of Chronic Bronchitis. Various research shows that most people who have chronic Bronchitis are more than 40 years of age.

Early Diagnosis and treatment and quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke can help your senior loved one with this condition lead a quality life. If left untreated for a long period of time Chronic Bronchitis can develop into COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). The chance of complete recovery is low for people suffering from Chronic Bronchitis but adhering to the doctor’s advice and making some lifestyle changes can help your beloved senior minimize the discomforts caused due to this and lead a better life. Elder Care Service providers in Kolkata provide Doctors' assistance at home and also Pathology Assistance for senior loved ones that can be availed to make them feel better.

Acute Bronchitis:-

Acute Bronchitis also known as a chest cold, occurs when the bronchi (large and medium-sized airways) get inflamed.

• The most common symptom of acute bronchitis is cough.

• Other symptoms include

• Coughing up mucus

• Chest discomfort, shortness of breath

• Fever etc

Acute Bronchitis may last for three to 10 days but the cough may persist for several weeks afterward.

Tobacco, dust, and fumes can add to the woes of your senior loved ones suffering from Acute Bronchitis. Consult a doctor if you feel your senior loved one is suffering from Acute bronchitis. A doctor may prescribe antibiotic medications, cough suppressants, etc to make help your senior loved ones gradually recover from this condition.

This is what you need to know about the difference between chronic and acute bronchitis to help your senior loved ones suffering from bronchitis get prompt treatment and lead a better life.

Debosree is a professional writer working in the Senior Care Field for quite a long time. She has written many informative blogs and articles on the senior care facilities that are available. He has a great reader base.