A persistent cough with lots of phlegm could be a sign of chronic bronchitis.
Many smokers experience chronic cough and phlegm in their throat; these symptoms may be chronic.bronchitisThe symptoms are indicative of chronic bronchitis. A respiratory specialist points out that smokers are at high risk of developing chronic bronchitis. If the condition is ignored for a long time, it can easily lead to lung infections and even pneumonia. Currently, there is no cure for chronic bronchitis; symptoms can only be relieved with medication. Patients may suffer from the condition for a long time, reducing their quality of life. Doctors recommend that the most effective way to avoid further damage to the trachea is to quit smoking.
The lungs are vital organs responsible for gas exchange; air enters the lungs through the bronchi. WhenBronchitisWhen coughing occurs, the mucous membranes secrete more mucus, leading to symptoms such as phlegm in the throat and persistent coughing. Dr. Lin Bing explained that bronchitis can be divided into chronic and acute types. If related symptoms persist for more than a week, it may be chronic bronchitis. However, chronic bronchitis cannot be completely cured at present; medication can only control the progression of the disease. As for acute bronchitis, it is mostly caused by viral infection and is usually contagious, possibly spreading through droplets or contact. However, in most cases, it does not require special treatment and can heal on its own. If necessary, doctors will prescribe palliative medications.
Dr. Lin further explained that chronic bronchitis itself is not contagious. The most common cause is smoking, but it can also occur in non-smokers. People who are exposed to toxic gases or exhaust fumes for extended periods, such as those working in parking lots or toll booths, are also at high risk. Even with long-term use of bronchodilators, the frequency of attacks can only be reduced; the damage to the trachea cannot be reversed. Therefore, it is recommended that people quit smoking or avoid prolonged exposure to toxic gases.
However, chronic bronchitis can also have acute exacerbations. Dr. Lin points out that acute exacerbations can be caused by bacterial or viral infections, or they may be related to environmental factors, such as the patient having traveled to a highly polluted area or been in an environment where tear gas has been fired. When patients notice a sudden change in the amount or color of their sputum, it may be a sign of an acute exacerbation. In this case, antibiotics, steroids, or bronchodilators may be needed to reduce inflammation, improve breathing, and help expel mucus from the lungs. If the condition is severe, hospitalization for nebulizer treatment may be necessary. If not properly managed for a long time, sputum buildup can obstruct the trachea, leading to difficulty in lung ventilation, and in mild cases, symptoms such as fever, cough, and vomiting may occur.asthmaIt can affect daily life and, in severe cases, increase the risk of lung infection, potentially leading to pneumonia.
Because coughing can occur in colds, pneumonia, asthma, and bronchitis, people often find it difficult to determine if they have chronic bronchitis. Dr. Lin advises that if related symptoms persist or even affect daily life, one should consult a doctor as soon as possible. The doctor will make a diagnosis based on the patient's medical history, smoking habits, and other factors. He also reminds the public not to self-medicate due to mild symptoms, as this could delay proper treatment.
