Chronic bronchitis in elderly: Causes and prevention
According to a WHO report, there are more than 251 million cases of COPD in the world in 2016 and the numbers have just increased every year. It is said to be the primary cause of over 5% of deaths globally. In India alone, there are over 10 million cases according to the Indian Study of Asthma, Respiratory Symptoms and Chronic Bronchitis’ (INSEARCH) study.
So what exactly is Chronic Bronchitis and why does it have such devastating effects? Let’s find out.
Bronchitis is an illness that occurs when the airways or passages that carry air to your lungs, called the bronchial tubes get inflamed and swollen and obstruct breathing. This obstruction makes a person develop a cough and mucus build up. When Bronchitis takes longer to dissipate (approximately2-3 months) and reoccurs frequently, it is known as Chronic Bronchitis.
There are two types of Chronic Bronchitis. One that develops in childhood, while the other develops due to the environmental and lifestyle factors and take place in adulthood. Chronic Bronchitis that develops in adults is known as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
Bronchitis that develops in childhood is either acute bronchitis or allergic bronchitis. When bronchitis is not treated in childhood, it can develop into chronic bronchitis.
Causes of chronic bronchitis
- Atypical bacteria commonly cause mild infections to the respiratory system and can also cause chronic bronchitis. Exposure to pollution can lead to chronic bronchitis. When it comes to chronic bronchitis in the elderly, indoor pollution such as coal and biomass fuels such as wood, grass, or dung, which are used for cooking and heating can largely contribute as well.
- Smoking is yet another major chronic bronchitis cause
Symptoms of chronic bronchitis
Coughing is the most evident chronic bronchitis symptom. Other symptoms of bronchitis that might occur are:
- Inability to keep up with the daily routine
- Wheezing sounds when breathing
- Tightness or dull pain in the chest
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
With chronic bronchitis, the airways become obstructed and the lungs don’t empty properly, which leaves air trapped inside the lungs.
All the mucus in the lungs causes people to experience chronic bronchitis symptoms such as wheezing, headaches, chest pains, sore throat, runny nose, fatigue and a chronic cough (dry or with phlegm). The shortness of breath and weakness from the condition can also lead to an increased risk for falls.
You need an approach that is natural and healthy. Let’s have a look at how homeopathic treatment fits this criterion.
Homeopathy for chronic bronchitis disease
Usually, elderly people tend to have low immunity and antibiotics might not always work for them. Homeopathy deals with bronchitis disease in a safe and gentle way. It works towards stimulating the body's natural defence and, in turn, improves the overall health of an individual.
According to a study, patients with respiratory problems when treated with homeopathy, showed a positive response rate of 82.6% as compared to 67.3% with conventional treatment. (Source: Research Gate)
Bronchitis can be accompanied by other respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergic rhinitis and it is imperative to determine the fundamental cause of an individual’s respiratory problems. At Dr Batra's®, homeopaths aim to achieve just that by treating each patient uniquely. They examine the patient’s genetic, family and medical history and study every detail regarding their health. Based on their observation, the homeopaths come up with customised medications for each individual. These medications present no side-effects and can be taken for as long as required. Read more
Along with homeopathy, you can adopt certain self-help tips in your lifestyle to fight off bronchitis more effectively. These include washing your hands with soap frequently, avoiding exposure to smoke, dust and pollutants, exercising regularly, eating healthy, avoid or give up smoking, steam inhalation etc.
Opt for homeopathy as it is safe, especially when it comes to respiratory diseases like chronic bronchitis. You can always visit the nearest homeopathy clinic by booking an appointment.
