Content
Tracheobronchitis is an inflammation of the trachea and bronchi that causes symptoms such as coughing, hoarseness and difficulty in breathing due to excess mucus, which causes the bronchi to become narrower, making it difficult for the respiratory system to function.
Generally, tracheobronchitis arises after an infection in the respiratory tract, such as flu, rhinitis or sinusitis, for example, but it can also be caused by an allergic reaction to animal hair or cigarette smoke, for example, being, in these cases, similar to asthma.
Tracheobronchitis is curable and, usually, treatment is done for 15 days with bronchodilator drugs and antibiotics, in case of a bacterial infection.
What symptoms
The main symptoms of tracheobronchitis include:
- Dry or secreted cough;
- Difficulty breathing;
- Constant wheezing when breathing;
- Fever above 38º C;
- Throat pain and inflammation;
- Tiredness;
- Nasal congestion;
- Nausea and vomiting;
- Chest pain.
When these symptoms appear, it is recommended to go to the emergency room or consult a pulmonologist to diagnose the problem and start appropriate treatment.
Possible causes
The most common causes of acute tracheobronchitis are infection by viruses or bacteria. In addition, this disease can also be caused by an allergic reaction, and in these cases it is important to identify the allergen that is the source.
Chronic tracheobronchitis is usually caused by cigarette smoking or prolonged exposure to toxic products and / or smoke.
How to prevent
As tracheobronchitis can result from an infection, the ideal is to avoid the transmission of viruses and bacteria, and the best way to prevent acute tracheobronchitis is not to stay indoors for a long time, avoid crowding people and clean yourself properly, decreasing thus, the chances of disease complications.
How the treatment is done
Treatment for tracheobronchitis should be guided by a pulmonologist and usually begins with the use of drugs to relieve symptoms such as pain, fever and inflammation, such as paracetamol, dipyrone or ibuprofen, and medications to relieve cough, which should be indicated taking into account the type of cough the person has, whether it is dry or if they have sputum.
In addition, if tracheobronchitis is being caused by a bacterial infection, the doctor may also prescribe the use of an antibiotic. If the infection is caused by a virus, just rest and keep hydrated.
In the most severe cases, the treatment of tracheobronchitis must be carried out at the hospital, in order to receive medicine directly in the vein and oxygen. Usually, the patient is discharged about 5 days after admission, and must keep the treatment at home.
Home treatment
A good home remedy for relieving the symptoms of tracheobronchitis is to drink mallow or guaco tea as a way to complement the treatment.
1.Malva Tea
This tea contains mallow, which is a natural anti-inflammatory that dilates the bronchi. However, it should not be used in high doses because it can have a laxative effect.
Ingredients
- 5 grams of leaves and flowers of mallow;
- 1 liter of water.
Preparation mode
Boil the mallow leaves and flowers for 5 minutes. Strain the mixture and drink 1 to 3 cups a day.
2. Guaco tea
Guaco tea helps in the treatment of tracheobronchitis, decreasing the amount of sputum. Guaco in addition to bronchodilator is a natural expectorant because it relaxes the muscles of the airways.
Ingredients
- 3 grams of dried guaco leaves;
- 150 ml of water.
Preparation mode
Place the guaco leaves in boiling water for 10 minutes. Allow to cool for 15 minutes and strain. Drink 2 cups of tea a day. Honey can be added to sweeten the drink and taken hot during the night.