Bronchial spasms are sudden contractions of smooth muscles in the bronchioles, causing acute narrowing of respiratory airways. They can be caused by allergies, respiratory disease, or infection. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing, and wheezing. Treatment involves inhalers, expectorants, and antibiotics if caused by infection.
A bronchial spasm, also known as bronchospasm, is a sudden, abnormal constriction of smooth muscle in the walls of the bronchioles. This constriction then causes an acute narrowing of the respiratory airways. This can be caused by a number of things, but most often it is the result of allergies, chronic respiratory disease or infection.
Bronchospasms occur when the passageways leading to the lungs become narrowed or blocked due to contraction of muscles or sudden inflammation of the lining of the lungs. During inflammation, the lungs can create excess mucus, which will cause the airways to narrow further. A bronchial spasm is usually sudden and can range from mild to severe.
Symptoms of a bronchial spasm can vary from person to person in severity and duration. Most people will experience shortness of breath and tightness or pain in the chest. Others may develop wheezing and a frequent cough that may or may not be productive. Depending on the severity of the case, some people may only experience some symptoms, while others may experience all of them.
Those suffering from long-standing conditions such as asthma are considered to be more at risk of a bronchial spasm than others. There are, however, a number of other reasons a person may develop this condition. Two of the most common causes are allergies and irritants. Mold, pollen, and pet dander typically cause a sudden reaction, but foods like nuts or shellfish can also cause a problem. Irritants such as smoke, aerosols, or chemicals can also create bronchospasm.
In addition to external factors and health conditions, things like exercise, infections, and emotional trauma can cause bronchial spasm. Those who are already prone to lung ailments are more likely to develop bronchospasm during exercise, but other factors such as cold weather can also trigger bronchial problems. Viral and bacterial infections of the respiratory tract can cause the airways to narrow suddenly. High stress or fear can also occasionally lead to a narrowing of the airways, although this sometimes occurs over time rather than suddenly.
Most bronchial spasms are treated with an inhaler to help open the airways. The patient may also be given an expectorant to help clear mucus or a cough suppressant if the cough is not productive. Antibiotics may be prescribed if the bronchospasm is the result of a respiratory infection.
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