Bronchitis refers to chronic non-specific inflammation of the mucous membrane and its surrounding tissues of the trachea and bronchus. Bronchitis may be acute or chronic. Symptoms include cough, sputum, shortness of breath and wheezing. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by viral or bacterial infection. It can be treated by antibiotics and bronchodilators. Chronic bronchitis is characterized by long-term persistent cough. Mild cases only need oral antibiotics and expectorants. Severe cases need intravenous antibiotics. If the condition is critical, a combination of antibiotics should be used intravenously. If you have wheezing, antispasmodic expectorants such as aminophylline and and ipratropium bromide should be used.
How is Bronchitis treated in practice?