Bronchitis

Definition: inflammation of the mucous membranes of the bronchi, the tubes that lead to the lungs

Causes: acute bronchitis is caused by an infection by either a bacterium or a virus, or sometimes by allergens or exposure to irritating chemicals
Chronic bronchitis is caused by a prolonged irritation to the lining of the bronchi, usually by smoke, inhaled allergens, or other inhaled toxins.

Signs and Symptoms:

Acute bronchitis is usually preceded by signs and symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection such as a cold: fever, sore throat, fatigue, nausea, and runny nose. The cough is at first dry or non-productive.

Chronic bronchitis is a cough that has lasted for several months and is usually productive, meaning that phlegm/mucus is brought up, especially in the morning. There is often difficulty breathing upon exercising or other exertion.

Treatment:

Acute bronchitis is usually treated with antibiotics of some type and avoidance of irritating factors. In addition, expectorants could be given to help cough up the phlegm. Bronchodilators may be given to those with chronic bronchitis.

Alternative treatment for acute bronchitis includes Echinacea to support the immune system, vitamin C to support anti-oxidant activity, and vitamin A to help repair the lining of the bronchi and to also give anti-oxidant activity to fight the infection. Fenugreek acts to think mucus, and horehoud and mullein help with coughs. Use a cold mist vaporizer to help you breathe.

Chronic bronchitis treatment includes the above vitamins and herbs, but they must be taken for a longer time. Studies in rats have shown that beta carotene helps with chronic bronchitis. In general, any anti-oxidant will help, as well as substances that help decrease inflammation in the body, such as fatty acids found in fish oils and evening primrose oil. N-acetylcysteine, approximately 600 mg/day, and glutathione have also been shown to be helpful.

Prevention:

Cessation of smoking is the most important action that one can take to prevent bronchitis. Next is a good quality low glycemic index diet with a lot of anti-oxidant filled fruits and vegetables. Avoiding allergens such as dairy foods (which tend to produce mucus), wheat, and sugar also help. Avoid carbonated beverages also. Reduce your exposure to other irritants such as chemicals and solvents. Sometimes reducing allergens in the home such as by cleaning air ducts, removing carpeting, and sealing mattresses and pillows also helps.

References:

Chin Med J 2003 Apr;116(4): 514-6.
Free Radic Biol Med 2001 Jun 15;30(12): 1400-6
Arch Fam Med 2000 Mar;9(3):241-5
Clin Ther 2000 Feb;22(2):209-21