Bronchitis Home Remedies - Get Rid of Bronchitis

Bronchitis is a respiratory condition which is characterised by the inflammation of the bronchi of the lungs which results in the discharge (coughing out) of a mucopurulent substance, commonly known as phlegm. This delicate, mucus-producing lining covers and protects the respiratory system, the organs and tissues involved in breathing. When a person has bronchitis, it may be harder for air to pass in and out of the lungs than it normally would, the tissues become irritated and more mucus is produced. Bronchitis often follows a respiratory infection such as a cold. And just as most people get occasional colds, virtually everyone has bronchitis at least once. When chronic bronchitis also decreases airflow, it is considered a defining characteristic of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (see Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) ) Chronic bronchitis is a serious long-term disorder that often requires regular medical treatment. Both adults and children can get bronchitis.It is of several types depending upon the nature of the discharge. Bronchitis can occur as a symptom of many other diseases like tuberculosis. Symptoms are similar for both. Infants usually get bronchiolitis, which involves the smaller airways and causes symptoms similar to asthma . Sometimes chronic bronchitis is called 'chronic obstructive lung disease' or 'chronic obstructive airways disease'. These terms reflect that the main problem is difficulty getting the air in and out of the chest and that is what causes the problems with breathing.

Just when you thought you were finally over a cold, your chest starts to feel sore and you develop an irritating cough. As the irritated membrane swells and grows thicker, it narrows or shuts off the tiny airways in the lungs, resulting in coughing spells accompanied by thick phlegm and breathlessness. Acute bronchitis is responsible for the hacking cough and phlegm production that sometimes accompany an upper respiratory infection. Chemical irritants such as cigarette smoke or other environmental or industrial pollutants damage the ciliated cells, eventually destroying the action of the hairs altogether. In all such cases, one or the other type of germ is considered to be the causative factor. The cells that make up this lining may leak fluids in response to the inflammation. They also cause the glands in the air passages to produce too much mucus. The total surface area now available for transferring oxygen to the blood is much less, so you become short of oxygen . In addition, the smaller bronchial tubes become inflamed, narrowed and partially blocked by mucus. The result is increased breathlessness.If you continue smoking, you may do sufficient damage to these cilia to prevent them from functioning properly, thus increasing your chances of developing chronic bronchitis

Herbal Medicines and Natural Home Remedies for Bronchitis

Exposure to cold wind and rains hould be avoided. Bath in cold water (speciallyin winter) is contra-indicated, more so when bronchitis is in its acute phase.

Curd and other sour things should be avoided. Sour fruits, including banana and guava are also contra-indicated.

Disclaimer : All information on www.healthatoz.info is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, please consult your doctor.