Bronchitis is a medical condition characterised by the inflammation of the trachea and bronchi in the lungs following an infection, and cough containing sputum. There are two types of this disease: acute bronchitis and chronic bronchitis. The treatment of bronchitis may depend upon the type of the disease. Acute bronchitis lasts for a short period, and in some cases, even only two weeks of treatment is required, while chronic bronchitis can take several months.
This is a short-term, mild bronchitis that usually follows a cold or viral infection. It is referred to as acute lung inflammation accompanied by inflammation of the airways, which comes with a persistent cough, mucus production, and discomfort in the chest. Acute bronchitis usually lasts for one to three weeks.
This is a long-lasting and severe bronchitis that persists for months if not years. It is a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and is typically caused by cigarette smoking or air pollution. Its clinical picture is similar to that of acute bronchitis inflammatory phenomenon; however, in this case, the symptoms are more pronounced and prolonged.
This is a productive cough rather than a dry one, which further heightens the lung secretion. The sputum produced is usually thicker than normal and can be colourless, white, yellow or green.
Breathing becomes tough, usually with exertion.
A high-pitched sound is heard when breathing, often due to inflamed airways.
The experience of tightness in the chest and sometimes accompanying pain in the chest.
A general feeling of tiredness and lack of energy due to constant coughing and breathing difficulty.
In Ayurveda, bronchitis is also known as Kasroga. Their cause is attributed to a vitiation of Vata and Kapha, which results in the production of excess mucus and the weakening of the respiratory system. Environmental changes, such as the patterns of diet, digestion, and weather or pollution of the atmosphere, exacerbate this condition. This conforms to the practice in which the accumulation of Ama or toxins in the respiratory channels creates inflammation and mucus.
Bronchitis can also be caused by any usual viral infection, such as the common cold or flu, which affects the bronchial tubes. In some instances, bronchitis may be caused by infections with bacteria. On the other hand, Chronic bronchitis is triggered by cigarette smoking or even extended exposure to any form of pollution, be it dust, fumes or even pollution in the air.
Like all other diseases, bronchitis also has its risks. Untreated bronchitis, particularly, may predispose the patient to several complications such as:
Pneumonia: This is the most dangerous complication of bronchitis. It occurs when the infection propagating from the bronchi spreads to the lungs, which are more severe in infection and require immediate treatment.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): This is a common respiratory disease marked by chronic bronchitis, which, if left untreated, may cause permanent damage to the lungs.
Respiratory Failure: Although unusual and rare, severe forms of bronchitis may affect the functioning of the lungs, which may lead to respiratory failure.
Asthma: Chronic bronchitis may trigger or worsen asthma in people who are already susceptible.
Frequent Infections: Persistent bronchitis weakens the immune system and increases the risk of recurring respiratory infections.
You need to approach a doctor if:
In Ayurveda, bronchitis is not considered simply a chronic cough but is treated more holistically and from the root, seeking to ensure that there is harmony within all three doshas of the body.
Herbal Remedies: Herbs like Tulsi, Vasa, Licorice, and Turmeric are effective in decreasing inflammation, removing mucus and reinforcing the functioning of the immune system.
Dietary Adjustments: The patient is advised to consume more warm and easily digestible food that pacifies the Vata and Kapha doshas. This entails taking soups, hot herbal teas, hot water and avoiding cold, heavy and oily foods.
Panchakarma Therapies: Procedures such as Vamana (medicated vomiting) and Nasya (nasal drops) are used for the removal of excess mucus from the respiratory airways and cleanse the overall body channels.
Lifestyle Modifications: Regular practice of breathing exercises (Pranayama) and yoga helps enhance lung capacity and improve oxygen flow in the body. However, cold exposure, smoke, and pollutants should be avoided to maintain respiratory health.
External Therapies: Ayurvedic oil massages and steam inhalation with herbal decoctions can help open up the airways and alleviate congestion.
Starting with Nadi Pariksha, Jiva's certified Ayurvedic doctors use this traditional pulse diagnosis to detect imbalances and assess organ health, which is crucial for diagnosing bronchitis accurately.
Understanding your unique physical and psychological pattern allows us to tailor a bronchitis treatment plan that not only addresses symptoms but aligns with your inherent constitution for lasting health.
Our practitioners investigate the progression of bronchitis by examining hygiene, dietary habits, lifestyle, and mental health factors. This thorough analysis helps identify specific triggers that need to be addressed for targeted, individualised treatment.
We then create a detailed bronchitis treatment plan, which consists of diet modifications, lifestyle adjustments, herbal medications, and specific therapies that aim to restore dosha balance and enhance respiratory health.
Continuous tracking of treatment effectiveness allows us to make necessary adjustments, ensuring that you achieve the best results from your personalised and Ayurvedic Treatment for bronchitis with Jiva's ongoing support.
Acute bronchitis is a mild type of bronchitis which usually lasts for a few weeks, usually due to infections or cold and cough, while chronic bronchitis is severe bronchitis which stays for months or years and is caused by long-term exposure to irritants which cause allergic reactions.
The doctor may listen for wheezing through the stethoscope, obtain a chest x-ray or do a sputum test to look for infections.
It depends on the type of bronchitis. Acute bronchitis caused by viral or bacterial infections can be spread by germs and viruses, while chronic bronchitis, which happens from irritants like smoking, is not at all contagious.
Herbal teas, steam inhalation, ginger, and honey are effective in soothing symptoms. Avoid cold and dry environments.
Acute bronchitis usually clears up in 1 to 3 weeks, while chronic bronchitis may require long-term management.
Yes, smoking is a major risk factor for chronic bronchitis and contributes to lung damage over time
Yes, children can get acute bronchitis, especially after a cold or viral infection. Chronic bronchitis in children is rare.
Yes, cold weather can worsen bronchitis symptoms, especially in those with chronic conditions, as it irritates the airways.
Chronic bronchitis, if untreated, can lead to permanent lung damage and respiratory issues like COPD.
Practising good hygiene, avoiding smoking, and minimising exposure to pollutants and respiratory irritants can reduce the risk of bronchitis.
