Risk Factors of Chronic Bronchitis

Written By Chouhab on jeudi 15 janvier 2009 | 11:38

By Amy Cheung

The chronic form of bronchitis is identified through the enlargement of the bronchi in the upper region of the respiratory system and the increased presence of an abnormally high quantity of mucus. This overproduction results in expectoration and cough in many patients with this disorder. The coughing is commonly observed in the early hours of morning soon after rising from bed, and is frequently identified as 'smokers cough'. A lot of patients often feel a kind of respiratory problem,including labored breathing or shortness of breath. Many distinct things can contribute to someone getting chronic bronchitis, and the specific trigger may vary according to the specific individual. Examples of the various risk factors that can cause this condition are:

Smoking Cigarettes

Smoking is the principal risk factor and is a part of over 90% of all cases of this disease. People that at present suffer from chronic bronchitis and still smoke are advised to stop this bad habit or otherwise face the risk of developing further difficulties. Examples of such complications are emphysema, pneumonia, and ultimately lung infection. The latter is notably hard to alleviate due to an excess level of mucus present in the upper part of the respiratory system. This mucus makes the area warm and moist, making it a hotbed for infection and bacteria.

Weak Immune System

Individuals with a weakened resistance to disease are deemed to be more susceptible to developing chronic bronchitis. This includes the sick, old, young, and those patients who are suffering from disorders affecting the immune system. If you have a weak resistance to disease and are consequently concerned about your health, it is advised that you confer with your doctor about specific supplements and modes of treatment that will protect you from the onset of further respiratory difficulties.

Contact With Or Exposure To Lung Irritants

Individuals who are exposed to lung irritants during work have a higher risk for getting chronic bronchitis. The most common jobs that comprise these risks are welders, coal workers, construction workers, and professionals whose jobs involve chemical laboratories. Dust is also considered an irritant affecting the lungs and must be stayed away from.

Recurrent Respiratory Infections

Individuals who suffer from recurring infections in the respiratory system have a much higher vulnerability to getting chronic bronchitis. These recurrent respiratory problems cause further complications in the upper respiratory system in its entirety , and can trigger your body toproduce thicker mucus. If you are battling with frequent infections involving the respiratory system you are advised to discuss your options for treating them with your doctor.

Regular Air Pollution Exposure

Individuals who are periodically exposed to increased amounts of air pollutants are increasingly more at risk of chronic bronchitis. Air pollution is a known irritant, so you should decrease your exposure to polluted air full of dust, smoke or chemicals with the intent to prevent developing this unpleasant and hazardous condition.

Patients With Acid Reflux

People who are suffering from acid reflux are more vulnerable to developing chronic bronchitis. The acid reflux consumes the airways or bronchi in your body, and triggers your body to manufacture an excess of mucus. A patient's bronchi can additionally become inflamed due to being exposed to their gases.

About the Author:

0 commentaires: