Symptoms include persistent cough without or with upper
respiratory symptoms. Most case are caused by viruses including: influenza,
RSV, and adenovirus. Other causes include bacteria infection, smoke or dust
allergy or asthma. A physician's job is to rule out serious causes
of acute bronchitis like influenza and pneumonia. These conditions might
increase morbidity and mortality particularly in the old and young. In cases of
fever, cough and increased lung congestion, a x ray and antibiotic can be
required. For influenza,
anti viral medication is useful if started within 48 hours. For simple
uncomplicated acute bronchitis, treatment options don't include antibiotics.
Overuse of pointless anti-biotics causes the drug-resistant bacteria like
methicillin resistant staph aureus in the community. Mucolytics anti tussive
cough medicine albuterol inhaler analgesics rest. Since acute bronchitis
involves increased mucous production triggered by infection or allergens, one
of the goals is to clear secretions. In 2003, Hasani studied the effects
aromatic oils on lung secretion space in chronic bronchitis sufferers. He
concluded that direct application of essential oils to the skin helped clear
respiratory secretions. Massage 1 or 2 drops into the chest area and dilute
with top quality olive or sweet almond oil. Use caution with the old and young
as the oils can cause a rash so test a small area of skin first prior to
applying to the entire chest.
Expect signs of acute bronchitis to last from 1-3 weeks. In
case you've any questions or difficulties, seek medical help. Reference: Effect
of aromatics on lung mucociliary clearance in patients with chronic airways
obstruction.
Acute Asthmatic Bronchitis by Health Care on Scribd
