Chronic bronchitis in adults. Chronic bronchitis: causes. Treatment of bronchitis - mucolytic drugs.

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi that usually develops against the background of ARVI or influenza. If the cause of the cough is recognized in time, then bronchitis can be cured in less than 10 days. An acute, untreated form of bronchitis can lead to chronic bronchitis.

Bronchitis is characterized by weakness, lethargy, fever, decreased ability to work. A dry cough becomes moist after a few days. Shortness of breath often joins the cough.

How to treat bronchitis at home

Antiviral drugs

If bronchitis began against the background of influenza, therapy will require antiviral drugs... Traditionally used Interferon and its analogues.

Expectorants

With a dry cough, brew and drink thermopsis, mother-and-stepmother, licorice at the very beginning of the disease. to relieve dry cough. When phlegm begins to drain, these herbs should be replaced with expectorants: plantain, ivy leaves, marshmallow, thyme, breast collection, anise drops.

Inhalation

Bronchitis is effectively treated with inhalation. Before starting the procedures, be sure to make sure that there is no temperature. There are a huge number of recipes for inhalation with bronchitis - these are saline, soda solutions, essential oils of eucalyptus, mint, pine, herbal preparations. It is useful to inhale phytoncides, which are abundant in the essential oils of garlic and rosemary - they reduce cough tremors, making it easier to cough up the cough.

Inhalation with sea salt helps with bronchitis: you need to pour 1 kg sea \u200b\u200bsalt into a saucepan and reheat. Mother-and-stepmother, thyme herb, strawberry leaves are added to hot salt. Coniferous buds also help with coughs. Traditionally, inhalation is carried out in this way: the head is covered with a towel and the patient breathes in vapors. You can pour hot salt into a teapot and inhale the steam through the spout with your mouth. After such a procedure, the bronchi expand, sputum leaves, the cough calms down. Usually 4-5 procedures are enough.

Hot wraps together with inhalations with a decoction of potatoes, to which you can add 2-3 drops of fir oil, are effective for bronchitis.

Massage and breathing exercises

Massage will effectively help to cope with the disease. Massage, like inhalation, is carried out only when the general condition is normalized. Home self-massage is also effective with the help of all kinds of devices, massagers, Kuznetsov's applicator, vibration devices powered by the mains or batteries.

After the end of the acute phase of the disease, you can do therapeutic breathing exercises. Women can start doing simple Bodyflex gymnastics, not just strengthening respiratory systembut also slimming. You can find Strelnikova's complex of therapeutic gymnastics on the Internet and work out according to her method.

Treatment with folk methods

Here we list the time-tested traditional methods treatments that our ancestors were treated with from generation to generation.

  1. Radish and honey: An old and effective recipe is a radish in which a small hole is made, 1 tsp is placed in the hole. honey. When the radish yields juice, you can drink it 3 times a day. This is an effective way to relieve coughs. Even more useful is black radish juice with honey.
  2. Aloe juice with pork or goose lard + butter + honey + cocoa for taste. This mixture can be eaten one tablespoon at a time, stirring in a glass of hot milk in the morning and evening.
  3. You can also prepare a drink from lard in a different way: boil a glass of milk and stir 1 tablespoon in it. lard and honey. A glass of the drink should be drunk once in the morning and once in the evening. Milk with bacon can be drunk not only during the period of the disease itself, but also when it has receded. Pork fat is a great help to restore strength.
  4. Onions with honey: half a kilogram of onions, 2 tbsp. honey, stir 400 g of sugar in one liter of water and boil for 3 hours, strain, cool, pour into a bottle. Drink the broth in 1 tablespoon 4-6 r. in a day. Store in a cool and dark place.
  5. One of the most common methods folk methods bronchitis treatment - hot milk with honey and soda.

Warming up the breast

  1. Warming up is an important method for treating bronchitis: boil the peeled potatoes, mash and add 1 tbsp. sunflower oil, 2-3 drops of iodine and stir. Place the mixture on a cloth and place the bag on your chest. Cover the top with a woolen shawl or scarf. Warming up should be done at night.
  2. If you have goose fat, you can rub it on your chest. After rubbing, you need to put on a jacket and drink a glass of hot milk with raspberries or honey.
  3. Mustard plasters are placed simultaneously on the chest and on the calves. You need to keep them until you feel a burning sensation.
  4. Instead of mustard plasters, you can take it for grinding chest a mixture of turpentine and castor oil (in a ratio of 1 to 20). You can moisten a piece of cloth with grated horseradish, squeeze it well and put it in the same places.

Herbal treatment

  1. Medicinal herbs: St. John's wort, chamomile, sage, calendula, calamus are suitable for preparing infusions. Enough 1 tbsp. l. in a glass of boiling water and let it brew. You can also drink the infusion 3 r. in a day. This is a personal anti-inflammatory.
  2. Plantain is known for its expectorant properties. 4 tbsp. l. chop plantain and pour half a glass of boiling water. Insist 4 hours, drain. All the received amount of liquid should be drunk during the day.
  3. Thyme, eucalyptus, cumin, St. John's wort, fennel, pine buds have an expectorant effect. They can be used to prepare infusions and inhalations.
  4. Decoctions of plantain, yarrow, violet, mother-and-macha, marshmallow roots will help to increase immunity. Mummy, licorice root syrup, echinacea tincture help to increase immunity. Decoctions of parsley, horsetail, juniper, birch, lingonberry leaves help to strengthen the body.
  5. If the patient needs to sweat, it is necessary to brew diaphoretic herbs: sage, mint, a broth of linden blossom and dry raspberries, elderberries or ginger with honey.
  6. Mix the fruits of anise, dill, pine buds, thyme, chopped licorice root in equal proportions. 4 tsp pour the mixture with one and a half glasses of cold boiled water, insist for 2 hours and boil for 2-3 minutes, strain. Drink half a glass in the morning, afternoon and evening.
  7. Infusion of oregano: 1 tsp. Brew herbs with a glass of boiling water and leave for a couple of hours. During the illness, drink a quarter glass in the morning, at lunchtime and in the evening.
  8. Mix 4 parts of wild rosemary, part of birch buds, 2 parts of oregano, part of common nettle leaves. Grind and mix everything. Pour 2 tbsp. mix half a liter of boiling water. Boil for 10 minutes, wrap and leave for half an hour, then strain. Take a third of a glass of 3 r. in a day. It is an excellent remedy for chronic bronchitis.
  9. For the treatment of cough, 1 glass of milk with 1 tbsp. sage is brought to a boil. Then the broth is filtered and brought to a boil again. Milk is drunk hot before bedtime.

In the cold season, especially in wet weather, a disease such as bronchitis overtakes many people. If left untreated, bronchitis quickly becomes chronic. Symptoms of chronic bronchitis can be confused with symptoms of other colds, but it is advisable to start treating chronic bronchitis as soon as possible.

Chronic bronchitis treatment

In the event of an acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, for treatment, the patient should be put to bed and make sure that he has a lot of warm drink. It is best to give him tea with the addition of honey or raspberry jam, hot milk diluted with mineral water, better - Borjomi when treating the symptoms of chronic bronchitis. In the treatment of chronic bronchitis, mustard plasters have a good effect, which should be placed both on the chest and on the back.

As medicines for the treatment of symptoms of bronchitis, various expectorants are used, and with prolonged and strong rise temperature shows the use of antipyretic and anti-inflammatory drugs. With chronic bronchitis, the patient should be given protein-enriched food and vitamin C. From the menu, spicy foods that irritate the bronchi should be excluded during treatment. You should also quit smoking. Chronic obstructive bronchitis and its symptoms should be treated only under medical supervision, as it can lead to severe respiratory damage, even pulmonary emphysema.

How is chronic bronchitis treated?

When antibiotics are prescribed to treat chronic bronchitis

  • a patient with symptoms of chronic bronchitis has a temperature of more than 38 degrees for more than three days,
  • a sick child with symptoms of chronic bronchitis has shortness of breath, but nothing indicates the presence of obstruction,
  • acute toxicosis in chronic bronchitis,
  • the manifestation of grunting breathing and the sinking of the chest,
  • increased ESR and the number of leukocytes in the blood.

Antibacterial drugs for the treatment of symptoms of chronic bronchitis are prescribed if a focus of bacterial infection has been identified in the body. In addition, these drugs are indicated to treat symptoms if the illness lasts too long and blood tests indicate inflammatory process... Antibiotic treatment of chronic bronchitis can last for a week, if necessary, it is extended for several more days. This mainly depends on the form of the disease and its symptoms. In some cases, complex treatment is carried out with several groups of drugs, but their compatibility should first be found out using a special table.

The main treatment for chronic bronchitis should be to suppress infection and symptoms. If the disease is mild, then all drugs are prescribed orally. If the patient suffers from a severe form of chronic obstructive bronchitis, then antibiotics will be administered by injection.

The effectiveness of expectorants in chronic bronchitis

Expectorants for the treatment of chronic bronchitis reduce the density of phlegm and its viscosity, accumulate water in the body, which greatly facilitates the coughing up of phlegm and the body requires much less energy. With the right products, you can not only easily remove phlegm. But also to a large extent prevent absorption, which means to prevent the effects on the body of toxins contained in sputum.

Expectorants for symptoms of chronic bronchitis are divided into two large groups. The first includes those drugs that affect the cough reflex itself and the whole body as a whole, and the second includes drugs that have a direct medicinal effect, in other words, they only change the properties of the sputum itself and do not affect the body with symptoms of chronic bronchitis.

Groups of expectorants for symptoms of chronic bronchitis

The first group of expectorants for the treatment of symptoms of chronic bronchitis, which has a reflex effect, enhances the secretion of those glands that are in the bronchi indirectly, along a reflex arc through the stomach. This makes the sputum less viscous, which makes it easier to separate in chronic bronchitis. This effect is possessed by drugs for treatment based on medicinal herbs and plants, many of which have long been used in recipes. traditional medicine, - marshmallow, licorice, thyme thermopsis. All of these herbs form the basis of breast fees that are sold in pharmacies.

The second group of expectorants in the treatment of chronic bronchitis has a direct effect on sputum and changes its properties by weakening the chemical bond at the molecular level. They help break down polymers into smaller compounds, which allows them to be removed more easily. Examples include drugs such as ambroxol or bromhexine.

Other expectorants for symptoms of chronic bronchitis of the same group, act on the bronchi themselves and increase their secretion. An example of such a remedy is regular baking soda.

Inhalation to treat symptoms of chronic bronchitis

Medicines for the symptoms of chronic bronchitis, which dilate the bronchi, are available in various forms, but inhalers have gained particular popularity. This is not surprising, because such forms allow you to quickly and efficiently deliver the drug directly to the site of the disease. These can be aerosol packs with a strict dosage or dry powders in the form of a powder for the treatment of chronic bronchitis. Inhalation with medications for chronic bronchitis can also be done using nebulizers. With the help of inhalations, anticholinergics are also administered for treatment. One of the most popular drugs for chronic bronchitis of this series is ipratropium bromide. Anticholinergics for chronic bronchitis have practically no contraindications and side effects that is why they are so widespread.

Medicines for symptoms of chronic bronchitis from the Beta-2 agonist group in old age should be used with caution, since they are contraindicated in heart disease.

Types of effective inhalations for chronic bronchitis and its symptoms

Of this class, salbutamol, berotek, berodual are especially popular for treatment. If for some reason you cannot use the inhaler for symptoms of chronic bronchitis, you can use medicines for bronchitis from a number of methylxanthines. They have a prolonged effect when taken, and therefore, to achieve the effect, it is enough to take them twice a day. This, for example, is such a remedy for the treatment of chronic bronchitis as teopek.

To regulate mucus secretion, drugs for the symptoms of chronic bronchitis from a number of mucoregulators are used. Deservedly popular are drugs from this group for treatment, such as lazolvan or acetylcysteine. If chronic bronchitis is severe and medications for chronic bronchitis that dilate the bronchi are ineffective, the doctor may consider it necessary to prescribe treatment with glucocorticosteroids. Usually, in this case, prednisolone tablets are used for treatment, the dosage of which is calculated based on the patient's weight.

Exercise for chronic bronchitis

What is breathing exercises for the treatment of chronic bronchitis

  • general strengthening of the body and increasing its resistance to various kinds of diseases of the respiratory organs is necessary in the treatment of chronic bronchitis,
  • reduction or complete elimination of those changes that have occurred in the bronchi due to the inflammatory process, increased blood flow,
  • restoration of the normal functioning of the bronchi and the normalization of the breathing process with symptoms of chronic bronchitis,
  • complete restoration of bronchoconductivity, as well as the use of auxiliary mechanisms and muscles.

The means and form of therapeutic exercises for symptoms of chronic bronchitis, the initial position of the exercises depend on how serious changes are already in the bronchi, as well as on the presence of complications. So, if chronic bronchitis proceeds in a mucopurulent form, exercises must be selected in such a way that they help cleanse the bronchi from sputum and pus. If the symptoms of chronic bronchitis have subsided, but the patency of the respiratory system has not been fully restored, obstruction remains, which interferes with the normal respiratory process, it is useful to use gymnastics using sounds, and then supplement it with special breathing exercises for bronchitis.

Exercise in the treatment of chronic bronchitis should be done in a well-ventilated room or ward. And if weather conditions permit, it is better to take classes outdoors. The duration of sound exercises for chronic bronchitis and its symptoms is initially no more than 53-5 minutes, but gradually their duration can be increased to 7 minutes or more. The exercises are performed from a lying position, but, if desired, the patient can sit and even stand. A deep exhalation requires the uttering of separate sounds, and in the presence of symptoms of chronic obstructive bronchitis, sounds should be pronounced without the slightest tension, almost in a whisper, calmly.

Sound exercises during gymnastics for bronchitis combine vowel and consonant sounds, which makes the vocal cords vibrate and transmit vibration to the bronchi, which helps them relax and simplify the separation of phlegm.

Technique for performing breathing exercises for the treatment of chronic bronchitis

Respiratory exercises in the treatment of chronic bronchitis are performed twice a day for about 20 days. Inhalation should be done with the nose and mouth alternately. While inhaling through the mouth, the nose should be closed so that it does not participate in the process. If, while performing exercises in the framework of gymnastics, with symptoms of chronic bronchitis, you overtake a coughing fit, you need to completely relax your neck and lower your head, surround the umbilical fossa with your palms. As soon as you feel the urge to cough, press your palms down on your stomach. The cough needs to be directed to the floor - this makes the sputum separation easier.

If you feel that too much phlegm has accumulated in the bronchi, do not try to cough it out by force so as not to harm the ligaments and not tear them.

Strelnikova's method for the treatment of chronic bronchitis

Respiratory gymnastics A.N. Strelnikova helps prevent the development of symptoms bronchial asthma, as well as prevent its attacks and avoid aggravation. First, take fifteen breaths through the nose, then, without interruption, fifteen breaths through the mouth. After that, you should take a break for 3-5 seconds, and the exercise is repeated again, then again a break - and again repeat. The next exercise for the treatment of chronic bronchitis is a calm breath in through the mouth, exhale through the mouth, too, weakly, almost weightlessly. Repeat 15 times.

Respiratory exercises for the treatment of chronic bronchitis

  • Take any container of water and a small straw. Inhale very deeply, then exhale into the water through this tube. Exercise to treat symptoms of chronic bronchitis should be done within 10 minutes, doing 4 sets per day.
  • Lie on your back, exhale deeply and powerfully, so that the abdominal muscles are involved. Then we inhale using the diaphragm so that the abdomen protrudes strongly. We quickly contract the abdominal muscles and cough dullly. You can perform the exercise not only lying down, but even standing or walking.
  • Spread your feet shoulder-width apart to begin treating chronic bronchitis. Raise your hands, spread them to the sides, palms up. Put your arms around your shoulders so that your fingers touch your shoulder blades. Exhale forcefully and loudly.

Each exercise to treat the symptoms of chronic bronchitis should be done for 10 minutes, doing 4 sets per day.

Treatment of bronchitis with folk remedies

Recipes for the treatment of chronic bronchitis with plant juices

Celery root juice for the treatment of chronic bronchitis: take fresh juice orally 1-2 teaspoons three times a day half an hour before meals.

Prescriptions for the treatment of chronic bronchitis with decoctions

  • A decoction of raspberries for the treatment of chronic bronchitis: pour five grams of chopped raspberry roots with two glasses of water and prepare a decoction. Take hot throughout the day.
  • A decoction of elecampane root for symptoms of chronic bronchitis: pour five grams of chopped elecampane root with one glass of boiling water, strain after 10 minutes. Take orally during the day.
  • A decoction of viburnum berries with honey for chronic bronchitis: pour half a glass of viburnum berries with half a liter of boiling water, cook for 8-10 minutes, strain, add three tablespoons of honey, stir. Take 100 ml four times a day before meals with colds, bronchitis, tracheolaryngitis.
  • A decoction of knotweed herb, anise fruits, dill, pine buds, thyme herb, licorice root for symptoms of chronic bronchitis: take equal parts knotweed herb, anise fruits, dill, pine buds, thyme herb, chopped licorice root, pour 15 grams of this mixture with 300 ml cold boiled water, leave for two hours, put on the stove, bring to a boil, boil for three minutes, cool, strain. Take half a glass three times a day half an hour before meals.

Recipes for treating symptoms of chronic bronchitis with tinctures

  • Infusion of elecampane, marshmallow and licorice for chronic bronchitis. Take the roots of elecampane, marshmallow and licorice equally, pour in two glasses cold water and leave for 8 hours. Take half a glass three times a day.
  • Infusion of celery root in the treatment of chronic bronchitis: 20 grams of celery root in a glass of boiling water. Take one tablespoon 4-6 times a day.
  • An infusion of wild rosemary and nettle leaves for symptoms of chronic bronchitis: 25 grams of wild rosemary herb and 15 grams of nettle leaves per liter of boiling water. Insist overnight, drain. Drink this infusion during the day.
  • Infusion of buckwheat flowers for chronic bronchitis: pour 10 grams of buckwheat flowers with one liter of boiling water, leave for 20 minutes, drain. Take half a glass four times a day.
  • Infusion of coltsfoot, chamomile and oregano in the treatment of chronic bronchitis: mix and thoroughly grind 20 grams of coltsfoot leaves, 20 grams of chamomile and 10 grams of oregano herb. Pour two tablespoons of this mixture with half a liter of boiling water. Insist, wrapped, three hours, drain. Take half a glass three times a day before meals in a warm form for bronchitis. This infusion is contraindicated in pregnant women.
  • Infusion of various herbs for symptoms of chronic bronchitis: mix 10 grams of lungwort herb, 5 grams of plantain herb, 5 grams of coltsfoot flowers, black elderberry and linden, 3 grams of primrose herb, 7 grams of wild poppy petals, 10 grams of buckwheat flowers, 10 grams of comfrey roots. Pour four tablespoons of the mixture with one liter of boiling water, leave overnight. Take warm, drink throughout the day.
  • Infusion of various herbs for chronic bronchitis: take 20 grams of marshmallow root and 10 grams of coltsfoot leaves, licorice root, mullein flowers and fennel fruits. Insist 10 grams of this mixture in a glass of cold water for two hours, boil for five minutes, cool, strain. Take one glass a day (sip).

Teas and Healing Drinks to Treat Symptoms of Chronic Bronchitis

  • Tea made from wild rosemary herb in the treatment of chronic bronchitis: 5 grams per glass of boiling water. Take half a glass 5-6 times a day.
  • Mix 100 grams of rye, oats and barley grains, add 30 grams of chicory root, fry, add two almond kernels, chop, Drink like coffee with hot milk.
  • Garlic drink for symptoms of chronic bronchitis: 5 medium sized cloves of garlic, cut into small pieces or crushed, boil well in a glass of unpasteurized milk and give to children to drink several times a day. The same remedy helps with coughing.

Chronic bronchitis symptoms

The main symptom of chronic bronchitis is the presence of a dry or wet cough, which produces viscous sputum, elevated temperature and general malaise. Chronic bronchitis is also aggravated by such symptoms: shortness of breath, and in addition, the cough with it is almost always wet. It can be normal or obstructive, in which the lumen of the bronchi narrows and fills them with thick, viscous mucus, which can lead to difficulty breathing and even suffocation. The higher the "experience" of chronic bronchitis, the more pronounced the symptoms.

Causes of symptoms of chronic bronchitis

The symptoms of bronchitis are caused by prolonged exposure to an atmosphere contaminated with dust, various poisonous gases, or active smoking for many years. The symptoms of chronic bronchitis and the need for treatment can lead to stagnation of blood in the lungs caused by heart disease, nervous tension, or prolonged hypothermia of the respiratory tract.

Chronic bronchitis is a slow, long-term or progressive inflammatory process that occurs in the bronchi.

The presence of bronchitis is indicated by the characteristic symptoms of the disease - a cough that lasts for 3 months (within a year or once) for at least two years.

Other cases of occurrence prolonged cough due to inflammation of the bronchi, refer to acute or recurrent bronchitis.

It is worth noting that the causes of chronic bronchitis are often rooted in constant smoking. In addition, the disease often appears in those whose work is related to stimuli ( chemical substances, various allergens).

The main symptom of the disease is coughing. The characteristics of this manifestation can be used to determine the course and clinical symptoms of the disease.

With chronic pneumonia, coughing can be productive and unproductive. If it is accompanied by sputum discharge, then this indicates a lack of mucociliary clearance. The bronchial tree is cleared of excess mucus using this defense mechanism.

It is worth noting that cough appears as a reflex resulting from irritation of the receptors of the mucous membranes of the trachea and bronchi. At the same time, impulses are collected in the cough brain center, as a result of which the respiratory muscles contract.

As for the small bronchi, everything is much more complicated with them, since they practically do not have receptors. Therefore, the inflammation that develops in this area, which has a small lumen, leads to a rapid and absolute obstruction. In this case, a protective reaction (cough) does not appear.

When chronic inflammation of the bronchi is accompanied by symptoms of bronchial obstruction arising from bronchospasm, as a result, a dry, unproductive cough appears, which sometimes takes on a hacking, paroxysmal character.

In this case, the patient may cough up some mucus. And if an unproductive cough is accompanied by wheezing wheezing during forced inhalation, then this indicates obstruction of the small bronchi.

In addition, chronic bronchitis is accompanied by a symptom such as shortness of breath. This manifestation develops with active and progressive inflammation, or when the disease has been going on for more than one year.

Most often, shortness of breath occurs in people with a solid smoking history and in patients with systematic seasonal exacerbations of cough. But with obstructive bronchitis, shortness of breath appears at the very beginning of the disease.

Also, in chronic bronchitis, sputum is separated, the amount of which is minimal at the initial stage of the disease and during its remission. Moreover, its color can be different, here much depends on the cause of the inflammation of the bronchi.

When there is an exacerbation of chronic bronchitis or its progression, mucus during expectoration is purulent, or mucous, its consistency becomes viscous, and the shade is green. Such sputum indicates the rapid multiplication of microbes, which requires immediate treatment.

Even with the course of inflammation in the bronchi, wheezing often occurs, due to the fact that the lumens of the organs are clogged with sputum. By the way, by the nature of this manifestation, it is possible to determine which part of the bronchial tree is inflamed and what is the nature of its course.

Sometimes, a person with chronic bronchitis coughs up blood. However, this symptom appears only with a prolonged course of the disease, which indicates its rapid development or even the presence of complications.

In addition, vivid symptoms of chronic bronchitis with bronchial obstruction can be found in asthmatic syndrome. Moreover, lack of air and frequent shortness of breath can appear at any stage of the disease.

Moreover, obstructive forms of bronchial inflammation are often accompanied by cyanosis, which is acocyanosis (cyanosis of the limbs, ears, nose) or diffuse cyanosis (the entire surface of the skin).

Auscultatory data is an important component of diagnosing chronic bronchitis, since with the transition of inflammation to COPD, changes occur not only in the bronchi, but also in the lungs. This is recorded auscultatory as hard breathing, which is sometimes weakened in the case of efmisema and dry, diffuse snoring.

It is worth noting that chronic bronchitis without obstruction, which is in remission, does not manifest itself in any way. And when the disease is in an exacerbation phase, then against the background of strong breathing, coarse wheezing appears, which may be moist.

Causes

Chronic bronchitis develops due to factors such as:

  1. infectious infection;
  2. genetic predisposition;
  3. cigarette smoke;
  4. work in conditions of hazardous production;
  5. unfavorable climatic conditions;
  6. inhalation of chemical plutants;
  7. weakened immunity.

Regarding the infectious nature of the onset of bronchitis, it develops when the body is affected by viral, atypical and bacterial pathogens.

But this is not enough for the onset of the disease, most often it develops in combination with other negative factors.

In addition, inflammation of the bronchi can develop due to a genetic tendency and characteristics of the bronchial tree. In this case, even the most insignificant external reasons can contribute to the appearance of the disease.

Work in hazardous industries (coal, chemical industry) contributes to the deposition of dust or harmful substances in the bronchi. In such unfavorable conditions, the body's self-cleaning mechanisms do not have time to remove harmful substances, as a result of which inflammation takes on a chronic form.

An unfavorable climate is a rare cause of chronic bronchitis. However, it is the negative background to which other reasons join:

  • industrial air pollution;
  • low air temperature;
  • high humidity.

It should be noted that it is not easy enough to trigger chronic inflammation. Therefore, it is not worth highlighting any one of all the reasons that are the first to start the inflammatory process.

An exception is chronic (in smokers) and occupational bronchitis.

Chronic bronchitis treatment

To get rid of the inflammatory process in the bronchi, etiopathic is used drug treatment... However, such a therapeutic measure does not completely eliminate the problem, but allows to stabilize the patient's condition and slow down the development of the disease. For this purpose, the following drugs can be used:

  1. bronchodilators;
  2. antibiotics;
  3. antihistamines and anti-inflammatory drugs.

In addition, inhalations and physiotherapy such as halotherapy are necessary. Moreover, to achieve an optimal result, you need to lead a correct lifestyle.

How to treat chronic bronchitis with antibiotics? It is worth noting that antibacterial drugs are prescribed only with an exacerbation of inflammation, which is accompanied by the following symptoms:

  • purulent, mucous discharge;
  • intoxication;
  • increase in temperature.

So, it is customary to treat bronchitis with semisynthetic aminopenicilli, which are potentiated by beta-lactamase inhibitors (Amoxiclav, Augmentin).

In addition, fluoroquinolones (Avelox, Lefofloxacin, Tsiprom), macrolides (Makopen, Avzithromycin), andcephalosporins (Cefuroxime, Ceftriaxone) are prescribed. However, before using any antibacterial drugs, sputum culture is done.

Expectorants can be used to treat chronic bronchitis of any complexity. In this case, 2 groups of drugs are used:

  1. anticipators;
  2. sputum disintegrants.

The latter dilute sputum, and the former help to improve mucociliary clearance. In total, they make it easier to cough up. So, drugs such as Bromgesin, ACC, Flavamed and Lazolvan are used.

It is also customary to treat chronic bronchitis with anti-inflammatory drugs and bronchodilators. These drugs improve the patency of the bronchi by expanding their lumen.

And anti-inflammatory drugs help to reduce the volume of secreted mucus and reduce the activity of pathogenic cells in the bronchial mucosa. There are several types of such drugs, the difference of which lies in the effect on different pathways of bronchodilation and the localization of obstruction:

  • combined drugs (Seretide, Symbicort, Berodual);
  • agents that relax the smooth muscles of the bronchi (Neophylline, Eufillin, Theophylline);
  • anti-inflammatory and antisecretory drugs (Fluticasone (Flexotide);
  • adrenergic receptor agonists (Fenoterol or Berotek and Salbutamol or Ventolin;
  • agents acting on cholinergic receptors (Spirothropium bromide and Ipratropium bromide.

These medicines, not including Euphyllin and its analogues, are sold as small metered dose inhalers.

Their advantage is that the patient can always keep it with him in order to use it if necessary. And the active components quickly penetrate into the area of \u200b\u200binflammation during inhalation, which allows you to quickly eliminate the manifestations of the disease.

Inhalation treatment of chronic bronchitis is a quick and sure way to get rid of the disease. Moreover, today you can buy not only individual inhalers, but also nebulizers - ultrasonic devices.

Such a device crushes the drugs so much that they turn into tiny particles and enter the bronchioles along with the air. Thus, inhalation is not only the prevention of chronic bronchitis, but also an integral part of its treatment.

In addition, a nebulizer is relatively inexpensive, so every second can purchase it. And as drug in the process of inhalation treatment, you can choose any drugs, the main thing is that they are liquid.

Often, the treatment of chronic bronchitis with inhalation involves taking a drug such as Dioxidin. It is an antiseptic drug with an antibacterial effect.

It is used in case of exacerbation of the chronic form of the disease. To make the drug, it must be diluted with saline in a ratio of 1: 4. A single dose is four milliliters.

In addition, in inhalation treatment, a local antiseptic drug, Chlorophyllipt, is often used. Such a remedy is prepared by diluting it with saline (1:10), while a single dose of the mixture is 4 ml.

Also, alkaline solutions are often used for inhalation therapy. In this case, sodium bicarbonate (soda solution) or a mixture made by yourself (1 teaspoon of soda per 200 ml of saline) can be used.

Atrovent is another bronchodilator that has an anticholinergic effect. It is a liquid that is diluted with saline (2: 2). This is enough for a single use.

Berotek is a beta-adrenergic receptor agonist that has a prolonged effect. For inhalation treatment, 0.5-1.5 ml of the drug is used. Moreover, it must be diluted with saline to 4 ml.

Ventolin is a short acting beta agonist. Sold in nebullae, which contain a single dose of medication. Before using, the product must be diluted halfway with saline.

Acetylcysteine \u200b\u200bis a medicine that loosens phlegm. Since it is used for inhalation, one package (nebull) contains a single dose of the drug. Before use, it must be diluted with saline to 3-4 ml.

Lazolvan is an expert and mucolytic. It is produced in vials for inhalation. A single dosage of the ready-made solution is 3-5 ml.

Halotherapy

How to cure chronic bronchitis permanently? To do this, the patient needs to revise his lifestyle and improve the characteristics of the daily inhaled air.

In addition, all bronchopulmonary diseases are treated by staying in deep salt caves. However, today the number of such diseases has increased significantly, and there is almost no opportunity to visit such places.

Therefore, scientists have recreated such conditions, thanks to which the body can cope with chronic bronchitis. Moreover, salt caves help to overcome not only such pathologies, but also many other diseases.

This treatment is called halotherapy. The procedure is carried out in a special halo chamber, where ideal microclimatic conditions are recreated. The first step is the cleanest air with a suitable temperature and humidity, which is enriched with various aerosol salt substances.

This method of treatment is very simple, in addition, it does not require additional use of medications and other manipulations. Ideally, halotherapy should be included in the treatment of any chronic illness.

Moreover, such treatment can permanently cure mild forms of bronchopulmonary diseases, and the course of severe stages will become more loyal, due to which fewer medications will be needed.

To achieve optimal results, it is enough to carry out halotherapy twice a year in a course of 3-4 weeks. The effectiveness of halotherapy has been proven by scientists after conducting randomized trials:

  1. With simple, obstructive and chronic bronchitis, an improvement in the condition of patients was observed in 76% of cases.
  2. Allergic skin rashes (89-92%).
  3. Chronic sinusitis (ethmoiditis, sinusitis, sphenoiditis, frontal sinusitis - 71%.
  4. Rheumatic diseases (80%).
  5. Fatigue and asthenic-vegetative syndrome (94%).
  6. Anxiety and depression (71-72%).
  7. Immune dysfunction (72%).

In addition, halotherapy is an excellent prevention of chronic bronchitis, which makes it possible to reduce the risk of such diseases tenfold. But only on condition of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, good nutrition, playing sports and giving up bad habits, especially tobacco smoking. What to do with chronic bronchitis, the video in this article will tell.

Chronic bronchitis is a sluggish pathology, accompanied by cough (dry, wet) and shortness of breath. Chronic inflammation of the bronchi with clinical manifestations 3 months and more. The mucous membrane of the bronchi loses the function of regeneration (restoration), and changes can affect the lung tissue and lead to fatal consequences for the whole organism.

Causes

Before treating chronic bronchitis, the cause of the lingering inflammation should be determined. Factors provoking chronic inflammation of the bronchial mucosa:



A cough in the morning with a small amount of dirty-colored sputum is a typical picture of chronic bronchitis, familiar to all smokers. However, several signs indicate the disease:

Cough.

A wet cough that recurs throughout the day usually does not cause serious discomfort. However, the secretion accumulating on the mucous membrane is an ideal environment for the development of bacteria and viruses. During auscultation (listening) of the lungs, the doctor notes hard breathing (both inhalation and exhalation are audible), moist rales of various sizes.

Dry cough is more serious. Spread chronic inflammation on small bronchi, in which there are no receptors, and therefore there is no reflex need to clear mucus, leads to their obstruction (blockage). An attack of a tearful cough ends with the discharge of scanty sputum. When listening, the doctor records wheezing rales on exhalation. Frequent distant wheezing, heard without a phonendoscope at a distance.

The separated sputum becomes abundant with exacerbation of inflammation, its color depends on the factor that caused the disease. So, with the progression of the process and the multiplication of an infectious agent, initially colorless mucous secretions acquire a yellow-green color. Smokers have dirty gray or brown phlegm, while miners have black phlegm. Only in advanced cases of the disease in adults, blood streaks are determined in the sputum. Hemoptysis speaks of the progression of the pathology and the possible development of the oncological process.

Dyspnea.

Difficulty breathing initially accompanies a dry cough with bronchial obstruction or gradually develops in people who often have colds and smokers. In any case, shortness of breath means the failure of the small bronchi, which leads to respiratory failure and general hypoxia of the body. Dyspnea that occurs initially only with physical exertion progresses rapidly and may appear even at rest.

Asthmatic Syndrome.

Difficulty breathing with problematic exhalation, such as an asthmatic attack, is often observed in sick children. At the same time, children under 3 years of age are diagnosed with recurrent asthmatic bronchitis. Bronchial obstruction is accompanied by bronchospasm due to excessive reactivity of the mucous membrane of children's bronchi. Asthmatic attacks are more likely to occur upon awakening.

Respiratory failure.



With prolonged inflammation, the lung tissue receives less oxygen, and the decompensatory reaction is manifested by cyanosis (cyanosis) of the tip of the nose, earlobes and limbs. Problematic removal of the respiratory gas from the lungs leads to saturation of the blood with carbon dioxide and causes headache, insomnia, morning dizziness, general weakness and sweating. In children, this symptomatology prevails over the manifestations of cough.

It is natural that during the period of exacerbation, the patient's temperature rises, cough and shortness of breath increase, his general condition suffers sharply, up to a lack of appetite and general weakness (weakness, muscle pain). The progression of the disease leads to empyema of the lungs and pronounced respiratory failure, in this case it is impossible to cure the disease forever. Smoker's bronchitis is one of the main causes of lung cancer.

Treatment

  1. Elimination of the provoking factor. It should be remembered: no drug therapy will give a result without eliminating the cause. However, quitting smoking for 20 years or more will not bring the desired success due to the irreversibility of changes in the mucous membrane.
  2. Antibiotics The use of antibiotics is justified during an exacerbation and with profuse purulent sputum. The doctor prescribes semi-synthetic penicillins (Amoxicillin, Augmentin), cephalosporins (Ceftriaxone), macrolides (Sumamed, Azithromycin), fluoroquinolones (Ciprofloxacin). The choice of the drug is determined by the sensitivity of the pathogenic flora, determined by sputum culture.
  3. Inhalation. The best option for inhalations for chronic bronchitis is a nebulizer, which provides antibacterial (Dioxidin, etc.), anti-inflammatory (Rotokan) and expectorant drugs even into the small bronchi.
  4. Expectorants. It is more advisable to take drugs that thin sputum (ACC, Fluimucil), mucoregulators (Lazolvan, Bromhexin) and reflexive agents (potassium iodide, marshmallow and plantain syrups).
  5. Bronchodilators. Prescribed at the first attacks of obstruction. The attending physician chooses one of the drugs: Atrovent, Salbutamol, Berodual (a combination drug) or Theophylline if the above drugs are ineffective.
  6. Boosting immune defenses. A course intake in spring and autumn of vitamins C and B, ginseng tinctures (not for children) and Eleutherococcus (1 drop per year of life, once in the morning for 10 days) will strengthen the immune system and help cure bronchitis.
  7. Folk remedies. Hot honey-lemon and milk drinks, herbal teas (rose hips, elecampane, linden, chamomile, raspberries), drinking plenty of water (non-carbonated mineral water is especially useful) can soothe a cough, have an anti-inflammatory effect and strengthen the immune system. One of the most effective recipes is an aqueous infusion of a garlic-lemon mixture and honey infused in a radish. At home, vodka (not for children!) And honey (allergy is possible!) Rubbing are effective. Treatment folk remedies negotiated with the doctor and does not replace drug therapy.
  8. Physical methods. Massage and breathing exercises (Buteyko and Strelnikova breathing techniques are especially effective) noticeably improve the cleansing of the bronchi from mucus. The only condition is the regularity of the procedures.

The cure occurs when understanding the causes and how chronic bronchitis manifests itself, how to treat the disease (full complex). It is possible to get rid of chronic bronchitis forever if irreversible changes have not occurred in the mucous membrane. That is why acute inflammatory processes in the respiratory system should be fully treated. It is imperative to exclude the annoying factor (quitting smoking, changing jobs) and completely revising the lifestyle (hardening, good nutrition, etc.). Only adherence to medical recommendations and their patient implementation will lead to a complete recovery.

Chronic bronchitis is a long-term, progressive, diffuse lesion of the bronchial tree. According to the criteria of the World Health Organization, such a diagnosis is made if a productive cough (with sputum production) does not stop for three or more months a year, as well as for more than two years in a row. How is chronic bronchitis treated? What to do in the remission phase? How to help a patient during periods of exacerbation?

Chronic diffuse bronchitis is associated with prolonged irritation of the mucous membrane by such harmful factors as:

  • smoking;
  • inhalation of dusty air;
  • inhalation of smoky or chemically contaminated air.

The disease can be triggered by other factors:

  • infections entering the lower respiratory tract;
  • frequent pathologies of the upper respiratory tract;
  • hereditary predisposition.

Classification of chronic forms of bronchitis

The disease is classified according to the following groups of signs:

  • By the nature of the inflammatory process:
    • chronic catarrhal bronchitis (in the exacerbation phase, signs of intoxication are weak, mucous or mucopurulent sputum is released; ventilation is not disturbed);
    • purulent chronic bronchitis (constantly or in an exacerbation phase is manifested by the release of purulent sputum).
  • By functional changes:
    • chronic non-obstructive bronchitis (in which ventilation is not impaired);
    • chronic obstructive bronchitis (ventilation processes are impaired, shortness of breath is observed, in severe cases - respiratory failure).

Distinguish between an exacerbation phase and a remission phase. Treatment of chronic bronchitis in these two periods has its own characteristics.

Treatment of exacerbation of chronic bronchitis

An effective treatment for chronic bronchitis must be comprehensive. When choosing methods, the following factors are taken into account:

  • the nature of the inflammatory process and functional changes;
  • individual characteristics of the patient;
  • the severity of the pathology;
  • the presence of complications.

The main tasks of treatment during an exacerbation are to fight infection and relieve symptoms. In this regard, the following drugs are used for chronic bronchitis:

1.Antibacterial agents.

Broad-spectrum antibiotics are prescribed first. These can be drugs such as

  • tetracycline;
  • chloramphenicol;
  • ampicillin.

If the effect does not occur, an analysis is made for the sensitivity of the microflora of sputum and bronchial secretions. The results allow individual antibiotics to be prescribed.

When the activity of the inflammatory process decreases, antibacterial drugs can be exchanged for onion or garlic inhalations (one part of fresh juice plus three parts of novocaine solution).

Against the background of prolonged use of antibiotics, a fungal infection can join. Then the intake of antifungal drugs is indicated.

2. Expectorants.

Taking antibiotics causes the phlegm to thicken. And the bronchi must be cleared of viscous secretions. Therefore, the following drugs are prescribed for the treatment of chronic bronchitis:

  • bromhexine;
  • bisolvon;
  • rinathiol;
  • trypsin;
  • ribonuclease and others.

Decoctions and infusions have an expectorant effect:

  • thermopsis;
  • marshmallow;
  • mother and stepmother;
  • chamomile;
  • special breast fees.

They are prescribed up to ten times a day, plus an abundant hot drink.

Inhalation for chronic bronchitis helps to increase the hydration of bronchial contents:

  • with sodium bicarbonate solution (have an excellent mucolytic effect);
  • with warm hypertonic solution (reduce the viscosity of bronchial secretions);
  • with prostaglandin (acting secretolytic).

3. Desensitizing agents.

Prescribed to patients with chronic obstructive bronchitis in conjunction with anti-inflammatory drugs. These are calcium preparations, acetylsalicylic acid.

4. Antihistamines.

Accepted according to indications for obstructive bronchitis. These are diazolin, suprastin and others.

5. Means for the restoration of bronchial patency.

Essential for chronic obstructive bronchitis. It:

  • sympathomimetics (alupent, izadrin, berotek, astmatine, ventalin and others);
  • anticholinergics (astmatol, at-rovent and others);
  • myotropic antispasmodics (theophylline, aminophylline, their analogues);
  • complex preparations (theofedrine, aminophylline, efatin).

6. Corticosteroids.

When no medicine for chronic bronchitis helps to eliminate the phenomenon of obstruction, corticosteroid drugs are prescribed. First, topically (in the form of aerosols), with increasing obstruction - parenterally or inside.

Drug treatment of chronic bronchitis during periods of exacerbation will be effective in combination with

  • taking vitamins (A, C, group B) and biostimulants (sea buckthorn oil, aloe, propolis);
  • electro- and physiotherapy (effective in most cases of chronic non-obstructive bronchitis);
  • physical therapy techniques (exercise therapy for chronic bronchitis during periods of exacerbation is performed only in the absence of obstruction).

How is chronic bronchitis treated during periods of remission?

Chronic bronchitis is a disease that is diagnosed more often in adults. The fact that in young people it is indicated by chronic bronchitis, in fact, is a protracted course of bronchitis or frequent relapses of acute pathology. Therefore, the treatment of chronic bronchitis in children during the period of remission should be aimed at strengthening the immune system.

Treatment of chronic bronchitis in adults during remission includes the following procedures:

  • taking depot-sulfonamides during the most dangerous period of the year for relapse;
  • long-term use of broad-spectrum antibiotics (either depot-sulfonamides or antibacterial drugs are prescribed);
  • special physical exercises;
  • hardening activities;
  • postural drainage twice a day for half an hour, followed by breathing exercises;
  • stimulation of non-specific resistance by vaccination (if indicated).

A diet for chronic bronchitis involves the daily consumption of fruits and vegetables, protein foods, pine nut or olive oil.