If you’ve been coughing, wheezing, and dealing with chest congestion for more than a few days now, you may have bronchitis. It is especially common during the winter months when colds and bacteria are spreading easily between the people we come into contact with each day. Although bronchitis typically isn’t serious and can go away on its own in most cases, it can still be incredibly unpleasant to suffer from. In this blog post, we'll explore what are the causes of bronchitis?
Causes of Bronchitis
Bronchitis is of two types – first is acute or short term bronchitis and the second is chronic or long term bronchitis. Both forms of bronchitis are associated with a cough and sputum production. These 2 forms are explained in detail below:
- Acute Bronchitis - The most common respiratory illness caused by viral infections. Typically lasting 1-3 weeks, acute bronchitis is self-limiting in healthy adults. Here are some common causes:
- Infection with Covid-19 and its variants
- Influenza virus A and B
- Respiratory syncytial virus
- Parainfluenza virus
- Rhinovirus and other upper respiratory tract infection viruses
- Occasional bacterial infections such as Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Mycoplasma pneumonia
Watch out for these risk factors:
- Regular exposure to pollution
- Smoking
- Asthma
- Exposure to allergens like pollen, dust, perfumes, and vapors
- Exposure to mold
- Chronic Bronchitis - Consistent cough for 3 months or more, recurring over two years. It's a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Look out for these causes:
- Cigarette smoking
- Passive or secondary smoking
- Exposure to smog, industrial chemicals, and other toxins
- Repeated viral or bacterial infections
Consider these risk factors:
- Respiratory diseases like asthma, cystic fibrosis, or bronchiectasis
- Repeated exposure to common airborne chemicals like ammonia and sulfur dioxide
- Family history of COPD
- Chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a rare but defined cause of chronic bronchitis
Taking proper care of yourself when you have bronchitis can greatly ease your discomfort and speed up your recovery time. This includes getting a lot of rest, staying hydrated, and avoiding irritants like smoke or fumes.
Conclusion
Bronchitis can be a difficult and even dangerous health issue to tackle. Knowing what causes bronchitis, however, can help provide insight into what may have triggered it and make us more aware of how we can help protect ourselves from any further damage in the future. Furthermore, if you feel like any of the symptoms discussed are becoming apparent or recognizing that they’ve been with you for an extended amount of time, don’t hesitate to speak with your doctor who will be able to provide further guidance and advice on how to approach treatment. Having health insurance can also ensure you have access to the necessary medical care and support during such times.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.