6. Persistence or Worsening of Symptoms
Bronchitis can be a very progressive ailment, with symptoms worsening over time. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it can be a good indicator that your bronchitis has developed into its chronic form. Here are a few key signs to look out for:
• coughing persists longer than 3 weeks, and either gets worse, or disappears only to return again within the year;
• your temperature climbs above 100.4 ° F (38° C);
• your mucus-producing cough is also accompanied by regular wheezing;
• coughing or wheezing regularly results in a loss of sleep;
• there is blood in your sputum
• a darker or heavier sputum is noticeable and is expelled with more difficulty and/or pain
When it comes to treatment of acute bronchitis, the goal is mostly aimed at alleviating symptoms and discomfort while the body fights the viral infection. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and painkillers are used to help you feel better while your body heals, often resolving quickly without further intervention.
In more severe instances, as is the case with chronic bronchitis, the decline in lung function can be slowed and lung function improved if certain steps are taken. These include quitting smoking, changing work environments, and avoiding lung irritants. The chronic condition can also be improved with non-drug based lung rehabilitation (e.g. exercise) or by reducing spasmodic activity in the lungs using bronchodilators. In life-threatening cases, lung transplant might be an option depending on the age and strength and general quality of health of the potential transplanted.