How is Bronchitis Detected?
Bronchitis is a condition of the lungs in which the bronchial tubes or airways of the lungs become inflamed. Symptoms of bronchitis include coughing, the production of mucus, tiredness, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and a slight fever. Timely detection of this condition is important for proper treatment. In this article, we’ll explore how to diagnose bronchitis.
Diagnosis of Bronchitis
For the diagnosis of bronchitis, a healthcare provider typically assesses physical symptoms and may recommend chest X-rays and other types of tests. A bronchitis diagnosis involves using the following tests:
- Chest X-ray: A chest X-ray is recommended if the patient is suffering from pneumonia or other conditions that lead to inflammation of the airways. Smoking can give rise to chronic bronchitis; therefore, if a person is or is currently a smoker, a chest X-ray is usually recommended first.
- Sputum test: Sputum produced as a result of bronchitis can be tested to see if the illness is due to a specific type of infection and if antibiotics can be helpful for the treatment. It’s important to note that sputum can also occur due to allergic conditions.
- Pulmonary function tests: In this test, the person is required to blow into a spirometer. A spirometer is a device that measures the capacity of the lungs to hold air and how fast air gets in and out of the lungs. This test helps in determining the signs of asthma or emphysema.
Conclusion
Bronchitis can be acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis resolves on its own, while chronic bronchitis takes months to resolve and keeps coming back. Bronchitis can be prevented by avoiding smoking, exposure to irritants, and practising good hygiene. Health insurance could cover the cost of bronchitis tests, doctors consultations and treatment, if required.