Viral Bronchitis

Bronchitis is commonly known as inflammation of the mucous membranes that line the bronchial tree. It can come in two forms: acute and chronic.

Acute bronchitis is usually caused by viruses, also known as viral bronchitis. However, bacteria can also be the culprit.

Other environmental factors can cause irritation to the bronchial tubes, such as smoke, vapors, pollutants, dust, and pollen. Bronchitis usually occurs after the immune system has been weakened by a cold or flu.

A dry cough usually is the first clue that bronchitis is on its way. The dry cough will then turn into a wet one, producing a lot of mucous. All of the mucous blocks your airways sometimes causing wheezing and shortness of breath. With viral bronchitis, you can also experience a slight fever and chest soreness.

Unlike viral bronchitis, if you have long-term exposure to airborne irritants, you can develop chronic bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis is followed by over production of mucous, but is not as severe as viral bronchitis or acute bronchitis.

It is also a long-term lung disorder. Other symptoms may include difficulty breathing, wheezing, and sometimes coughing up blood.

If you have a weakened immune system or have exposure to pollutants, you are more at risk for developing viral bronchitis. Elderly people and babies also have a strong risk of bronchitis. If you belong to any of these categories, it is good idea to see you doctor regardless if it is just viral.

You can alleviate your symptoms by drinking a lot of water, and inhaling steam (such as using a humidifier or taking a hot shower). Using menthol or eucalyptus is a good idea to help break up the mucous. Menthol is not advised for babies because it slows down their breathing.

You can also stop smoking and cut out foods that produce more mucous such as dairy products. If you are breastfeeding your baby, it is proven that the likelihood of contracting a lung infection is reduced.

There are some other supplements you can try to help alleviate your viral bronchitis. They include Echinacea, eucalyptus, garlic, multivitamins, N-acetyl cysteine, Vitamin A (if you are pregnant or could get pregnant don’t take this), Vitamin E, and Zinc lozenges.