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BronchitisDescription Bronchitis is an inflammation of the trachea, bronchi and bronchioles resulting from a respiratory tract infection. It is generally self-limited with complete healing and full return of function. Acute bronchitis is common in children from RSV, and is often preceded by a respiratory tract infection. Chronic bronchitis is common in adults and is usually caused by long-term irritation from air pollution or cigarette smoking. Hypersecretion of mucous often leads to chronic productive cough - the ÒsmokerÕs coughÓ. Causes Bronchitis is an inflammation of the trachea, bronchi and bronchioles resulting from a respiratory tract infection. Risk factors include: Chronic bronchopulmonary diseases; Chronic sinusitis; Bronchopulmonary allergy; Hypertrophied tonsils and adenoids in children; Immunosuppression; Air pollutants; Elderly; Infants; Smoking; Second-hand smoke; Alcoholism; Reflux esophagitis; Tracheostomy; IgA deficiency; and Environmental changes. Conventional Labs A chest x-ray that reveals hyperinflation and increased bronchovascular markings Pulmonary function tests show an increase in the lung's residual volume and a decreased vital capacity Arterial blood gases show a decreased level of oxygen in the blood and an increased level of carbon dioxide Chronically infected sputum is common in bronchitis. A sputum culture usually shows pathogenic microorganisms and/or neutrophils.
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Fantastic new books! CAM Therapies has studies on natural therapies for over 100 diseases. CAM Labs lists lab tests for 100 diseases. Nutritional Genetics is a fantastic resource.
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