Bronchitis

Question 1

Describe the Epidemiology of bronchitis

Answer 1

More common in Men

Question 2

What causes acute and chronic bronchitis?

Answer 2

Acute:
• Viral and bacterial infections e.g. influenza
• Exposure to irritants e.g. pollution, chemicals

Chronic
• Smoking

Question 3

Describe the pathogenesis of acute bronchitis

Answer 3

1. Cells of the bronchial-lining tissue are irritated
2. Mucous membrane becomes hyperaemic and oedematous
3. Bronchial mucociliary function diminishes
4. Air passages become clogged by debris and irritation increases.
5. In response, excessive secretion of mucus develops
6. Which causes the characteristic cough of bronchitis.

Question 4

Describe the pathogenesis of chronic bronchitis

Answer 4

1. Smoke impairs ciliary movement,
2. Function of alveolar macrophages inhibited
3. Leads to hypertrophy and hyperplasia of mucus-secreting glands.

Question 5

What are some symptoms of Bronchitis?

Answer 5

• Cough
• Sputum
• Fever
• Nausea
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• General malaise and chest pain (in severe cases)

Question 6

Diffuse diminution of air intake or inspiratory stridor are indicative of…..

Answer 6

Bronchial or tracheal obstruction

Question 7

How can chronic bronchitis affect the heart?

Answer 7

Can cause right ventricular hypertrophy therefore leading to a sustained heave along the left sternal border

Question 8

What are some complications of Bronchitis?

Answer 8

• Cor pulmonale
• Pneumothorax
• Haemoptysis