Qu'est-ce que la bronchite aiguë ?

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**What is Acute Bronchitis?**



**Definition:**



Acute bronchitis is a‌ common respiratory ⁢tract infection that causes inflammation and swelling of the bronchial⁣ tubes, the main airways in the lungs.



**Causes:**



* **Viruses:** Most⁢ cases (80-95%) are caused by viral infections, ⁤such as ⁢the common cold or influenza virus.

* **Bacteria:**​ Less commonly, bacteria (e.g., Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae) can ⁤cause acute bronchitis.



**Risk Factors:**



* Smoking

*‌ Air pollution

* Frequent respiratory ⁢infections

* Weakened⁤ immune system

*⁢ Young ‍children⁤ and the ⁤elderly



**Symptoms:**



* Persistent ‌cough‌ (dry or ‍productive)

* Chest discomfort or tightness

* Wheezing

* ‍Fever (usually ‍low-grade)

* Chills

* Fatigue

* Runny nose

* Sore throat



**Diagnosis:**



* Physical examination

*⁣ Medical ⁣history

* Chest X-ray (may be‌ used to rule out other lung conditions)



**Treatment:**



Most cases ‍of‌ acute ​bronchitis are self-limiting and do not require specific treatment. However, supportive measures can ‌help alleviate symptoms:



* **Rest:** Get plenty of rest.

* **Hydration:** Drink plenty of fluids to⁣ keep ⁢the mucus thin and easier to⁤ clear.

* **Over-the-counter ⁣medications:** Expectorants, cough ⁢suppressants, and pain relievers can provide temporary relief.

* **Bronchodilators:** Inhaled medications ​that open up the airways‍ may be prescribed for more severe cases.

* **Antibiotics:** In bacterial cases, antibiotics such as amoxicillin⁢ or erythromycin may be prescribed.



**Prevention:**



* **Vaccinations:** Get vaccinated against influenza and pneumonia.

* ⁢**Smoking⁣ cessation:** Quitting⁢ smoking significantly reduces the risk of respiratory infections.

* **Hand hygiene:** ⁢Wash your hands thoroughly to prevent the spread‍ of ⁤viruses and bacteria.

*⁢ **Avoid exposure:** Stay away from individuals with respiratory​ infections.



**Complications:**



* Pneumonia (infection of​ the lungs)

* Asthma

* Chronic obstructive pulmonary ‌disease (COPD)



**Recovery and Prognosis:**



Acute bronchitis typically resolves within a few weeks. Cough may persist for longer. Most individuals make a full recovery, but complications can ⁢arise in certain cases.



**Additional Notes:**



* Acute bronchitis is sometimes referred to‍ as chest cold or tracheobronchitis.

* ⁤Persistent symptoms or worsening of ​symptoms may indicate an underlying complication.

* If you experience shortness of ‍breath, seek emergency medical​ attention.