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Bronchitis

An Overview: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is a general term used to describe lung diseases associated with airflow obstruction. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis fall into this category. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that COPD as a single cause of death shares 4th and 5th places with HIV/AIDS (after coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease and acute [...]

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Chronic Bronchitis: Treatments

Quitting smoking produces a lot of multi-system benefits even after the diagnosis of bronchitis. It improves lung function by inhibiting further damage brought by nicotine to the bronchial mucosa. However, smoking cessation requires tremendous effort and determination. Studies shows only 6% of smokers accomplish successful long-term abstinence. Nicotine patches or gum and an antidepressant such [...]

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Chronic Bronchitis: Surgery

Lung transplantation may be an alternative if medical therapy is not effective. Single and bilateral lung transplants have a 2-year survival rate of 75%. Lung reduction surgery is an option for clients with advanced lung hyperinflation. The procedure improves elastic recoil and decreases the overall volume of the lung because it is reshaped.

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Chronic Bronchitis: Risk Factors

Cigarette smoking is the main risk factor for chronic bronchitis. People exposed to secondhand smoke can also acquire this condition. The WHO estimates that passive smoking is associated with a 10 to 43 percent increase in risk of COPD in adults. Irritant gases can also contribute to the disease development. Although cigarette smoking is the [...]

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Treatments for Chronic Bronchitis

To protect oneself from respiratory infections which can precipitate chronic bronchitis, immunization against pneumococcal pneumonia and influenza vaccine are recommended. If an infection is diagnosed, broad spectrum antibiotic is prescribed. Broad spectrum antibiotics target both Gram negative and positive bacteria. Studies show that clients with thick, tenacious sputum and increased difficulty of breathing will likely [...]

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Chronic Bronchitis: Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of chronic bronchitis are the following: Productive cough with copious amounts of thick, tenacious sputum A rattling or whistling respiratory sound resembling snoring heard upon auscultation, caused by secretions Bluish-purple discoloration of skin and mucous membranes usually resulting from a deficiency of oxygen in the blood In advanced chronic bronchitis, peripheral [...]

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Chronic Bronchitis Diagnostic Tests

Diagnostic Tests for Chronic Bronchitis 1.    Pulmonary Function Testing is executed to evaluate the extent and progress of chronic bronchitis. There is no need for fasting since this is not a noninvasive test; however, tobacco products, bronchodilators, and eating a heavy meal should be avoided for 4 to 6 hours prior to testing. 2.    Ventilation-perfusion [...]

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Factors of Risk in Chronic Bronchitis

Cigarette smoking is the main risk factor for chronic bronchitis. People exposed to secondhand smoke can also acquire this condition. The WHO estimates that passive smoking is associated with a 10 to 43 percent increase in risk of COPD in adults. Irritant gases can also contribute to the disease development. Although cigarette smoking is the [...]

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