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Bronchial diseases include bronchitis, bronchial pneumonia, asthma, COPD, congenital and acquired bronchiectasis, and tracheobronchomalacia. Symptoms include coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Treatment varies depending on the specific condition.
There are numerous conditions that affect the lungs and bronchi. Some of the more common types of bronchial disease include bronchitis, bronchial pneumonia and asthma. Respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can cause a constriction of the upper airways and are typically seen in combination with other bronchial disorders such as emphysema.
Bronchitis, acute or chronic, is caused by inflammation of the bronchi. If you have acute bronchitis, it could be a secondary infection following the common cold. Symptoms are low-grade fever, cough, and a feeling of tightness or burning in the upper chest. It is usually treated with antibiotics. Chronic bronchitis can be caused by cigarette smoking or allergies.
Bronchial pneumonia is caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It usually affects the bronchi and one or both lungs. Patches of bronchial tubes are likely to become infected and inflamed, causing a deep cough, fever, and chills. There may also be difficulty breathing and chest pain. Patients exhibiting severe symptoms of upper respiratory infections such as influenza, as well as those with compromised immunity, may be vulnerable to bronchial pneumonia.
COPD typically occurs in patients who have smoked for several years. It can cause symptoms such as a chronic cough, shortness of breath, and tightness in the chest that can get progressively worse over the years. Factory workers who are exposed to certain chemicals or airborne contaminants may also be at risk for COPD. The airways surrounding the bronchi can become blocked and inflamed, causing chronic symptoms.
Asthma is a chronic condition and a type of bronchial disease that affects the lungs and upper airways. This condition can cause attacks that produce shortness of breath and wheezing. Cough may also be present. Bronchodilators are usually prescribed to allow free passage of air.
Patients with asthma can develop what is known as bronchial hyperactivity. This is a type of bronchial disease that causes certain muscles to contract more rapidly when exposed to conditions that cause an involuntary response. When the airways become inflamed and irritated, this too can trigger temporary bronchial spasms.
Some babies are born with a bronchial disease known as congenital bronchiectasis. This causes a deformity of the upper airway leading to deterioration and unusual widening. This disease can also develop in childhood or adulthood, in which case it will be known as acquired bronchiectasis. In severe cases, bronchiectasis can cause a discoloration of skin tone and coughing up blood. Drainage of excess respiratory secretions is an essential step in the treatment of this bronchial disease.
Tracheobronchomalacia is another type of bronchial disease that can cause complete collapse of the trachea and other bronchial problems. This generally occurs due to malformed or insufficient cartilage that has become brittle. With this rare disease, the windpipe can become extremely flexible, causing difficulty breathing. This condition may be linked to COPD in some patients.
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