Drugs for the treatment of bronchitis in adults: effective and inexpensive drugs

Updated: 02/01/2021 16:58:54
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Author of the article: Pogrebnoy Stanislav Leonidovich

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As clinical practice shows, cases of primary acute bronchitis in adults are quite rare. Usually we are talking about a chronic condition, which modern medicine calls not chronic bronchitis, but chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This is a whole group of diseases in which the ventilation of the lungs is impaired. In addition to “former” bronchitis, this group also includes, for example, emphysema. In adults, the cause of exacerbation of obstructive disease is most often hypothermia, smoking, and others. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), several tens of millions of patients worldwide are diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; COPD ranks third in the world in mortality after cardiovascular pathology and cancer.

Characteristics of the disease

With bronchitis, inflammation of the tissues of the bronchi occurs. Pathology can arise as a separate disease or be a manifestation of other lesions of the respiratory system. There is no slight tissue damage; the inflammatory process does not extend beyond the bronchial structures.

Damage to the structures of the bronchi develops as an individual process or is a complication of past pathologies or chronic diseases of the respiratory apparatus.

The first symptoms of this pathology are: pain in the sternum, severe shortness of breath, cough, causing pain and weakness throughout the body.

Bronchitis is one of the rather serious lesions of the bronchi; treatment should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor. He selects the necessary medications and their dosage regimen.

Diagnosis of bronchitis in adults

Acute bronchitis

The diagnosis of “acute bronchitis” can be confirmed using examination data and additional research methods:

• When examining the patient, auscultation reveals hard breathing and dry wheezing of varying timbres and pitches. After sputum separation (after 3 days of illness), silent, significant wheezing appears.
• Laboratory blood tests (general analysis) reveal a slight increase in leukocytes and erythrocyte sedimentation rate.
• There will be no deviations from normal values ​​on the x-ray , but an increase in the pulmonary pattern is often detected.

Chronic bronchitis

Diagnosis of chronic bronchitis involves:

• Inspection : Coarse, hard breathing is detected, exhalation will be lengthened, dry and moist wheezing appears.
• Sputum analysis. The nature of sputum, the presence of one or another type of pathogen, blood streaks and bronchial casts (for allergic bronchitis or bronchial asthma against the background of the dust factor) are determined.
• In addition to sputum analysis, instrumental research methods are carried out: Bronchoscopy. Under local anesthesia, a bronchoscope (a device made of a flexible rod with a light source and a video camera at the end) is inserted into the airways under visual control. Examine the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity, trachea and bronchi. In primary chronic bronchitis, diffuse or limited inflammation of the bronchi is detected, which can affect the main, lobar and segmental bronchi. With limited bronchitis, the segmental bronchi are not affected. There are 3 degrees of inflammation of the mucous membrane (l/v): I – pale pink tint, l/v. with no bleeding; it is thinned, the vessels are visible in it.
• II - thickened side/rev. bright red, covered with mucopurulent contents, and may bleed.
• III – back/rev. purplish-blue, covered with purulent exudate and instantly bleeds upon contact with the bronchoscope.

Diagnosis of bronchitis in smokers

To confirm the diagnosis of “chronic obstructive bronchitis” (smokers), a thorough history of the development of the disease, a general examination, laboratory and instrumental research methods are carried out:

• The doctor asks the patient about the duration of smoking , the number of cigarettes smoked per day, and bothersome symptoms.
• Upon examination, depending on the duration of the disease and the severity, the shape of the chest may change (barrel-shaped), the neck becomes short, the ribs are located horizontally. Other features: In severe COB, the veins of the cervical region enlarge and swell, especially during exhalation.
• When respiratory failure occurs, the skin and mucous membranes acquire a cyanotic (pale) appearance.
• With the development of pulmonary heart failure, acrocyanosis (blueness of the upper and lower extremities) is observed, swelling in the legs and abdominal pulsation occur. Patients take a forced sitting position with their legs down.
• On auscultation, exhalation is prolonged, harsh breathing is observed, and wheezing can be heard even at a distance.

After conducting research methods, you can set the severity of obstructive bronchitis.

Provoking factors

The most common cause of the development of any type of bronchitis is pathogenic microflora.

The main causative bacteria include:

• staphylococci, streptococci, pneumococci.

The damaging agents of viral origin are:

• influenza virus, respiratory syncytial infection, parainfluenza, adenovirus.

Inflammatory processes are provoked by:

• the presence of viral or bacterial agents in the body;
• harmful working conditions associated with the need to be in a room with high air pollution;
• long-term smoking;
• living in poor climatic conditions.

Acute bronchitis occurs when internal infection is caused by viruses that cause colds or flu. They cannot be destroyed by drugs with antibacterial activity, so they are rarely used.

A common cause of prolonged bronchial disease is cigarette smoking. Polluted air and high concentrations of dust and toxic compounds in the environment also cause serious harm.

There are a number of factors that can significantly increase the risk of developing any type of bronchitis:

• genetic conditioning;
• living in an unfavorable climate;
• smoking.

Causes of the disease

The cause of the disease is pathogenic microorganisms. The table provides systematic information about the most common pathogens.

The disease requires close attention. If left untreated, acute bronchitis in adults can become chronic, and pneumonia can also develop.

Classification

In medical practice, there are several types of bronchitis, among which there are acute forms and chronic types of the disease.

Acute bronchitis is characterized by acute inflammation of the mucous structures of the bronchi. An acute type of pathology can be:

• simple type;
• obstructive type;
• obliterating type bronchitis;
• bronchiolitis.

Simple and obstructive types of the disease are detected quite often in the adult population, replacing each other. This disease is called recurrent bronchitis. Over the course of a year, the disease appears more than 3 times.

Attention! If the disease is not completely treated, it becomes protracted, which is a risk of developing a chronic form. This diagnosis is made with periodic exacerbation of the disease for at least 2 years. With this type of disease there is a wet cough. In summer, relapses are rare.

The following types of chronic disease are distinguished:

• non-obstructive simple type, it does not interfere with breathing;
• non-obstructive with purulent discharge without changing respiratory function;
• obstructive bronchitis, which is accompanied by breathing problems;
• purulent-obstructive.

Features of chronic and acute bronchitis

Acute bronchitis

Serves as a manifestation of acute infectious and inflammatory processes.

Predisposing factors include:

• 
  Hypothermia;

• Inhalation of polluted air fumes , dust, acids and bases;
• Bad habits – smoking cigarettes and various analogues, alcoholism;
• Often, diseases of the cardiovascular system that arise against the background of venous stagnation in the pulmonary (lesser) circulation may be involved in the development of acute bronchitis.
• Foci of chronic infections (inflammation of the tonsils, carious teeth) can also contribute to the development of bronchitis.
• It is important to remember that heredity plays a significant role in the development of acute allergic bronchitis.

Causes of acute bronchitis in adults

The most common causative agents of the disease are:

1. Viruses (rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, mixed infections);
2. Bacteria (pneumococci, staphylococci, mycoplasma, Pfeiffer bacillus);
3. Exposure to physical and chemical factors;
4. Mixed nature.

Symptoms of acute bronchitis

The bronchitis clinic joins the existing clinical manifestations of acute respiratory infections or occurs simultaneously:

• Low-grade hyperthermia or high fever (38º C) , general weakness, malaise, runny nose.
• In addition, patients feel pain in the chest area , a dry cough or a cough with difficult sputum occurs.
• Due to overstrain of the muscular system due to constant coughing, pain develops in the upper abdomen and lower parts of the chest. The pain is dull and intensifies when coughing or changing body position.
• After a few days, the cough begins to become wet , and sputum of a mucopurulent nature appears.

In mild, uncomplicated disease, respiratory function is not impaired and shortness of breath does not develop. Only when bronchial obstruction (blockage of small bronchi) occurs does breathing and heart rate increase.

The duration of the disease ranges from 7 to 14 days. In the presence of chronic diseases and pathologies of the cardiovascular system, the duration of acute bronchitis can vary from 2 weeks to several months.

Chronical bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis
is a diffuse inflammatory and infectious pathology of the bronchial tree, accompanied by a constant cough with sputum production for at least 90 days a year, lasting more than two years.

These symptoms cannot be related to other somatic pathologies of the cardiovascular, respiratory and other systems.

Among others, from the standpoint of pathophysiological, and most importantly clinical, chronic bronchitis is classified:

• Chronic;
• Chronic obstructive (smokers' bronchitis) is a disease with obvious differences in pathogenesis, clinical picture and prognosis.

They are united by only two main symptoms - cough with sputum production for 3 months for 2 years!

Causes of chronic bronchitis

Etiological factors (reasons for development) are:

• Smoking
  .
  Tobacco products contain toxic substances that provoke the development of cancer and mutations (pathological disorders at the genetic level). Under the influence of these substances, the function of the ciliated epithelium of the bronchial tree is disrupted. Its damage leads to the fact that it is not able to evacuate nicotine particles from the bronchial tree, which accumulate and settle in the walls of the bronchioles. Nicotine leads to a decrease in the activity of the bronchial cellular apparatus and the transformation of ciliated epithelial cells into precancerous cells. The synthesis and functionality of surfactant, which performs immune, bactericidal, and protective functions, is disrupted. It also lines the walls of the alveoli and participates in the act of breathing. Included in cigarettes: cadmium is a chemical element that causes damage to the mucous membrane of the bronchial wall;
• nicotine, polonium - provoke damage to the cellular components of the bronchi and lead to the development of carcinogenesis.

Chronic bronchitis clinic

The main symptoms of this bronchitis are:

• Cough with sputum of various types , general weakness and sweating during an exacerbation.
• At the beginning of the pathology, cough occurs in the morning or after waking up. This is due to the accumulation of mucus and dust particles, cigarettes in the lower sections of the bronchi. During sleep, the ciliated epithelium is not as active as during the daytime. The cough gets worse in cold weather and wet/cold seasons.
• At the initial stages of the disease, cough in patients occurs only during the period of exacerbation; as the disease progresses, the cough becomes constant, disturbing not only in the morning, but also during the day and night. Sputum is characteristic at any stage of the pathology. At the beginning of the disease, it is mucous in nature, and over time it becomes mucopurulent with an unpleasant odor. In severe cases, sputum is separated with streaks of blood or blood clots.
• Uncomplicated chronic bronchitis resolves without significant changes in external respiration functions. Dyspnea develops only in the acute phase.

Important! It is necessary to differentiate hemoptysis during bronchitis with lung cancer, pulmonary tuberculosis, pulmonary embolism and bronchiectasis.

Signs

When bronchitis occurs, cough comes to the fore. It performs the function of protecting the respiratory system. This is an increased exhalation, allowing the body to get rid of foreign agents that have entered the respiratory apparatus.

In addition, the whole body feels unwell, appetite disappears, fatigue and fever appear. These are signs of intoxication of the body systems caused by the process of inflammation of the bronchi. The temperature rises to 39 degrees. But it can also occur without hyperthermia; this is influenced by the individual reactivity of the body.

Usually, a cough initially appears without wet discharge, then it turns into a productive one. The mucus that is coughed up may be clear or greenish in color.

If the structures of the respiratory apparatus are severely damaged, there is a risk of damage to the pulmonary vessels; for this reason, red streaks may be present in the sputum discharge. The acute period for bronchitis lasts no more than 4 days.

Severe chest pain may also occur. This intensifies when coughing. Patients complain of hyperhidrosis. When the first signs appear, it is necessary to immediately begin selecting adequate treatment.

Symptomatic picture of a chronic form

With chronic bronchitis, which occurs with mucus discharge, constant shortness of breath may be present. This symptom may not go away throughout your life.

With exacerbation of bronchitis, an increase in the symptomatic picture is observed:

• the strength of the cough increases;
• the amount of fluid released when coughing increases, the severity of shortness of breath increases, and hyperthermia is present.

The disease in the adult population in rare cases is an isolated pathology. It is usually accompanied by signs of rhinitis or tracheitis. This affects the overall course of the pathology.

Signs of obstructive bronchitis

With this type of disease, prolonged exhalation is observed, which is accompanied by whistling, wheezing and the need to engage additional muscles during breathing. A recurring cough is often replaced by a weak one, and body temperature may fluctuate greatly.

This type of bronchitis is physically tiring, because when breathing, additional muscles are activated, and there is constant tension in the muscles of the thoracic region.

About symptoms

Typical symptoms of exacerbation of bronchitis (we will, in the old fashioned way, call the state of altered bronchial reactivity with a predominance of inflammation bronchitis, for greater convenience). The most common complaints are a dry cough, which is soon followed by sputum. In the case of a prolonged dry cough, it becomes annoying and painful, and there is a feeling of scratching behind the sternum. Then wheezing occurs in the lungs, which can sometimes be heard at a distance. Typically, such symptoms occur without general signs of general intoxication, against the background of normal health. If bacterial flora is added, general health worsens, weakness, chills appear, and the temperature rises, usually to subfebrile levels. In a blood test, leukocytosis occurs, and in severe cases, a shift in the leukocyte formula to the left.

The drug rating includes pathogenetic treatment agents, that is, aimed at reversing the development of the pathological process. If the patient’s health is normal and there is no mucopurulent sputum, then the main methods of treatment will be drinking plenty of vitamins, alkaline mineral water, normalizing the function of the bronchial tree, and fighting inflammation. Antibacterial drugs are not indicated, but immunomodulators and, if indicated, antiviral agents can be used, especially if the epidemiological situation and symptoms suggest a diagnosis of influenza. Let's consider the most effective and popular drugs for the treatment of bronchitis, both acute and during exacerbation of the chronic process, including in cases of developed bronchial obstruction.

Treatment of bronchitis

Treatment of the disease is carried out comprehensively. Medicines for bronchitis in adults are selected by the doctor, indicating the names in the prescription. It is also necessary to observe a rest regime, drink plenty of warm tea with honey and raspberries.

Heated mineral water also helps. If there is no fever, then heat can be applied to the chest.

Inhalations with eucalyptus, menthol and anise oil have a good effect. During the treatment of the disease, they try to eliminate dust and gas pollution in the room, drafts, and stop smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages. Complex therapy should include mixtures with antitussive effects, mucolytics, antiallergic agents and vitamin-mineral complexes.

Reference! Acute bronchitis is treated by eliminating symptoms: reducing the temperature, performing inhalations, and prescribing expectorants. Sometimes antifungal medications are necessary. In mild forms of bronchitis, recovery occurs fairly quickly.

For chronic bronchitis, antibiotics, expectorants and drugs are selected that promote the expansion of the bronchi and adjacent structures. When quitting smoking, positive dynamics are observed.

Physiotherapy

These manipulations are effective for bronchitis and are prescribed in addition to drug therapy. Usually quartz treatment, UHF and inhalation are used.

1. Warming the chest area is prescribed as an adjunct after eliminating an exacerbation of a chronic type of bronchitis or after undergoing treatment for the acute stage.
2. Massage is necessary for poor mucus discharge. It helps open the bronchi and accelerate the discharge of serous-purulent mucus.
3. Breathing exercises help restore normal respiratory function and relieve shortness of breath.
4. Inhalations are not a physiotherapeutic technique; they are a full-fledged method of treatment.

The best remedies to fight inflammation

One of the most important pathogenetic stages in the treatment of acute and chronic bronchitis is the elimination of the inflammatory component. After all, bronchitis is, first of all, an inflammatory reaction of the small bronchi, as a result of which the secretion and transport of bronchial mucus is disrupted. Inflammation, despite the fact that it is a protective mechanism, in some cases contributes to the occurrence of the above-described bronchial obstruction syndrome.

In this case, ongoing swelling and changes in the properties of mucus cause bronchospasm and congestion. To stop the inflammatory process, various drugs that belong to the NSAID group, starting with acetylsalicylic acid, are widely used. The most common indications for acute and chronic bronchitis for relief of inflammatory syndrome are the occurrence of general malaise, the appearance of signs of intoxication and a rise in temperature. Let's consider the most commonly used effective drugs for bronchitis from the group of anti-inflammatory drugs.

Erespal (fenspiride)

Rating: 4.9

Erespal, or fenspiride, is a special anti-inflammatory drug from the antihistamine group. It produces an antibronchoconstrictor effect, preventing the narrowing of small bronchial elements. The product is available in the form of tablets or syrup: it is a brownish-yellow transparent liquid. The drug reduces spasm of bronchial smooth muscles, prevents the occurrence of edema and reduces the symptoms of exudation and inflammation.

Erespal is widely prescribed not only for various forms of acute and chronic bronchitis, but also for diseases of the upper respiratory tract, tracheitis and laryngitis, various forms of bronchial asthma, hoarseness and sore throat, and other unpleasant respiratory symptoms. Erespal is also indicated in all cases where antibacterial therapy is prescribed for the treatment of respiratory tract infections. It is necessary to use it for adults from 3 to 5 tablespoons per day before meals - a significant amount. The duration of the course is determined by the attending physician. Erespal is produced by the domestic company Pharmstandard, and the average cost of syrup in a 250 ml bottle is 450 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

Erespal is a drug that is classified as an antihistamine, so it is not recommended to combine it with drugs of the same class, alcohol and sedatives. It is not used in children under two years of age, or in cases of hypersensitivity to fenspiride. Erespal is also not recommended for pregnant and nursing mothers, but only due to the lack of necessary studies. Quite often, while taking Erespal (that is, from 1% to 10% of cases), various gastrointestinal disorders and loose stools may develop. But in general, this remedy acts effectively against various inflammatory changes in the bronchial tree, and if Erespal is prescribed in a timely manner, there is sometimes no need for antibacterial therapy.

Coldrex HotRem

Rating: 4.8

This powder with vitamin C dissolves in hot water and is most often used for acute bronchitis, or for severe general manifestations, fever, intoxication during exacerbation of chronic bronchitis. The product contains paracetamol as the main and safe drug from the NSAID group, phenylephrine and ascorbic acid.

Coldrex, when used regularly, produces an analgesic, antipyretic and decongestant effect. It is indicated, in addition to acute and chronic bronchitis, for various forms of fever, for acute tonsillitis, for pharyngitis, for various forms of sinusitis. Paracetamol has an antipyretic effect and anesthetizes, and phenylephrine stimulates alpha receptors, which reduces swelling of the nasal mucosa and other parts of the upper respiratory tract. Coldrex Hotrem is produced by English, and the powder in bags number 10 can be purchased at a price of 309 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantage of Coldrex will be its rapid effect and ability to reduce fever, symptoms of intoxication, and normalize well-being. However, it should be remembered that it cannot cure bronchitis on its own, since it has neither antimicrobial nor antiviral effects. But if you use it together with mucolytics, expectorants, and combine it with plenty of vitamin drinks, then with a quick start of treatment, you can sometimes get rid of it without antibiotic treatment. It must be remembered that this drug should not be used for severe liver and kidney disorders, and if the dose is exceeded more than 4 times a day, the result may be increased blood pressure, nausea, diarrhea, palpitations or insomnia.

Paracetamol (Efferalgan, effervescent tablets)

Rating: 4.7

Efferalgan is “pure” paracetamol, and it should be used for bronchitis if and only if there are severe symptoms of intoxication. This is malaise, fever, or increased temperature, the appearance of unpleasant symptoms of a viral infection, such as pain when moving the eyeballs, skin pain when combing hair, and other similar symptoms. It is used for chills and muscle aches. One of the most effective types of paracetamol is Efferalgan in effervescent tablets. They are quickly absorbed. Paracetamol blocks cyclooxygenase, as a result it relieves fever and relieves pain. Paracetamol does not have a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect. Therefore, if there is no pain and no fever with bronchitis, then it should not be used. It is usually prescribed one or two effervescent tablets 3 times a day, but not more than 8 tablets. Effervescent tablets should not be swallowed; they must be dissolved in a glass of warm water. Efferalgan is produced, and 16 effervescent tablets with a dosage of 500 mg are inexpensive: only 155 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

It is important to remember that Efferalgan, like other drugs from the group of anti-inflammatory drugs, do not treat bronchitis. They do not affect microbes, nor the secretion of communication, nor the improvement of expectoration. Their job is to relieve symptoms such as fever and pain. Usually the drug is very well tolerated, and only occasionally side effects may occur, only in case of overdose. The most common symptoms are nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and pallor. To avoid overdose, it is advisable not to exceed the maximum daily dose of 8 tablets, and in no case use Efferalgan and other types of paracetamol for more than 3 days as an antipyretic. However, paracetamol is very effective for common colds with fever, headache and muscle aches, and therefore it should be in any home medicine cabinet.

In conclusion, it should be said that in the treatment of acute and chronic bronchitis, antiviral and antimicrobial agents are also used, depending on the duration of the disease and the indications. Since antibiotics are currently sold exclusively by prescription in the Russian Federation, there is no point in describing them, since they are not commercially available.

Medicines

What to take for bronchitis? Before using any medications, consultation with a specialist is necessary.

Bronchodilators

To improve sputum discharge, it is necessary to use bronchi dilators. For bronchitis, adults are prescribed:

• Salbutamol;
• Eufillin;
• Theotard.

Cheaper analogues can be used. But it is better to coordinate such a prescription with your doctor.

Expectorant medications:

1. Mukaltin. Helps soften mucus and facilitate its removal.
2. Preparations based on thermopsis: Codelac Broncho and Thermopsol.
3. Herbal products: Herbion, Bronchicum and Pertusin.
4. ACC. This is a medicine that has a direct effect. Affects directly the secreted sputum. If the dose is exceeded, severe vomiting, diarrhea and heartburn may occur. You need to take these medications until the mucus is completely gone. The duration of treatment with herbs is about 3 weeks, and with pharmaceuticals - no more than two weeks.

The best remedies for bronchitis

Prevention

To prevent the occurrence of this disease, it is necessary to carry out preventive measures. These include:

• giving up any type of smoking;
• performing breathing exercises after waking up;
• avoiding contact with sick people during the cold season;
• prevention of general hypothermia of the body;
• constant ventilation of the room and frequent cleaning;
• wearing a mask in the workplace if harmful factors are present;
• daily walks in the fresh air;
• strengthening the body through sports exercises and a balanced diet;
• timely treatment of ARVI.

What to look for when choosing medicines?

1. A cough due to inflammation of the bronchial mucosa can be different: dry and wet. In this case, different drugs are taken.
2. The use of antitussive medications for bronchitis is not recommended, as they can change the clinical picture of the disease, which will lead to a worsening of the patient’s condition.
3. When selecting medications, it is the doctor who advises which medications to take, not the neighbor in the grocery line.
4. It is important to pay attention to side effects and contraindications, since many medications for bronchitis affect the cardiovascular and excretory systems.
5. Choosing an inexpensive drug says nothing about its effectiveness. These can be inexpensive but effective drugs, and vice versa. You need to choose a proven product class=”aligncenter” width=”600″ height=”452″[/img]

Complications

Bronchitis is characterized by an insidious course. In the absence of adequate therapy, the following complications may occur:

• change in the structure of the bronchial tree - experts attribute this change to pre-mortem;
• asthma of the bronchial type;
• emphysema;
• cardiopulmonary disorder;
• pulmonary artery hypertension;
• bronchopneumonia - develops with a decrease in immune defense and is a common complication of bronchitis;
• transition to a chronic variety - occurs when an acute variety appears more than three times a year;
• dilation of the bronchi.

If during the disease there is sputum mixed with blood, then it is necessary to conduct an examination for tuberculosis or oncology.

If you notice the first signs of the disease, you should immediately consult a doctor. It will help you choose effective treatment and quickly get rid of the manifestations of pathology, preventing complications from occurring.

How to quickly cure bronchitis at home

Antiviral agents

If bronchitis occurs against the background of influenza, then antiviral drugs can be used for therapy. Interferon preparations can be used intranasally, that is, instilled into the nose for both children and adults; the use of other antiviral drugs for acute respiratory viral infections and influenza is today widely advertised and recommended, however, there are no convincing studies and evidence of their effect and safety, so the decision to use them - everyone's personal business.

Expectorants

To improve sputum discharge, the doctor prescribes expectorants, mucolytic drugs, there are many of them in the pharmacy network - the most popular and effective among them are: Lazolvan, Ambrohexol, Bromhexine, Herbion, herbal breast infusions (which can be used in the absence of allergies to medicinal herbs). For a prolonged cough and elements of bronchial obstruction, Ascoril (Joset, Cashnol) containing salbutamol is prescribed.

At the very beginning of bronchitis, the patient usually experiences a prolonged, dry, nonproductive cough. Therefore, to alleviate the condition, you should take drugs such as Glaucin, Libexin, Tusuprex, Levopront, which suppress dry cough, and expectorants are taken later, when the cough turns into a wet one. You can also use combination drugs, such as Sinecode - instructions, Bronchicum, Broncholitin. To treat bronchitis with folk remedies, for dry coughs, thermopsis, licorice, and coltsfoot are used.

After 4 days, as a rule, sputum begins to disappear, so cough suppressants should be discontinued and sputum thinners should be taken:

• Mucolytics - these include acetylcysteine ​​- ACC, Muconex, Fluimucil, as well as carbocysteine ​​- Fluifort.
• Expectorants are means that improve coughing up sputum, that is, a reflex effect, these include the well-known plantain (Gerbion), ivy leaves (Prospan), marshmallow, thyme, anise drops, as well as Chest collection.
• Mucokinetics are agents that facilitate the movement of sputum, for example, Bromhexine. Such popular medicines as Lazolvan (in Ambroxol tablets), Ambrobene, in addition, have the property of thinning sputum, making it less viscous, and easily remove it from the body.

Inhalations

It is very effective to treat bronchitis using various inhalations. If you want to quickly cure bronchitis, then you should definitely do inhalations. Just make sure first that there is no high temperature or palpitations.

There are many recipes for steam inhalations for bronchitis - these include saline and soda solutions, and essential oils of eucalyptus, pine, mymy, herbal preparations, inhalation of phytoncides, which are rich in essential oils of garlic and rosemary - reduce cough shocks and facilitate the process of coughing. However, it is not uncommon for allergic reactions to occur to essential oils and medicinal herbs, and therefore people prone to allergies (hay fever) are better off not taking risks and avoiding the use of various herbs and essential oils.

Also, for those who have a home inhaler, you can carry out inhalations for bronchitis with a nebulizer with Lazolvan, Ambrobene, etc. with special medicinal solutions designed to improve the release of phlegm from the bronchi.

In the case of obstructive bronchitis in children or adults, the drug Berodual is an effective bronchodilator; special solutions are available for inhalation.

Massage, breathing exercises

Massage always effectively and quickly helps to cope with almost all diseases; for bronchitis, it can only be carried out if the body temperature is normalized; you can do it yourself, using various massagers, a Kuznetsov applicator, or vibration massage. Today there are many different types of massagers, so you can purchase any of them.

After the acute period of inflammation ends and there are only residual effects in the form of a rare cough, you can begin to do therapeutic breathing exercises, for example, according to Strelnikova. Women can try doing simple exercises from the Bodyflex breathing exercises, which not only strengthens the respiratory system, but also normalizes metabolism and promotes weight loss.

You can also undergo physical therapy on your doctor's recommendation.

Oddly enough, but old proven remedies are forgotten by modern people, and methods such as cupping, mustard plasters, and warm compresses are rarely used by people. But these are safe and very effective procedures.

Antibacterial therapy

Very often, doctors “insure themselves” by prescribing antibiotics for bronchitis in order to prevent the development of infection. However, if the nature of the disease is viral, then antibiotics will not only not help in treatment, will be ineffective, but will also harm the body

Therefore, it is very important for a qualified pulmonologist to determine the cause of the disease and only then prescribe effective treatment. Using a convenient service for selecting doctors, sign up for a consultation in your city without queues and save personal time

It is advisable to prescribe antibacterial therapy for the following symptoms:

1. Increased body temperature (more than 38.5C) for 3 days.
2. General weakness, intoxication of the body.
3. Increasing respiratory failure, severe cough, shortness of breath.
4. Separation of green, copious sputum.

If the above symptoms appear in adults or children, antibiotics should be prescribed immediately to avoid complications. Antibacterial agents come in various convenient forms: tablets, suspensions, and syrups.

There are several groups of such drugs:

Aminopenicillins. This type of antibiotic has a detrimental effect on the walls of bacteria, destroying only harmful microflora without causing significant harm to the body. The disadvantage is the high probability of allergic reactions to the drugs. Semi-synthetic aminopenicillins include: Flemoxin, Amoxicillin, Amoxiclav, Augmentin, Flemoclav.

• Cephalosporins. These are broad-spectrum antimicrobial antibiotics that can be combined with other drugs. The main dosage forms are tablets or powder for injection. This type of antibiotics includes: Ceftriaxone, Cefatoxime, Cefoperazone, Maxipim.
• Macrolides. This type of antibiotics is prescribed in cases where the infection “does not respond” to the above drugs or in case of individual intolerance to one of them.

Clarithromycin and Spiramycin are distinguished by their ability to create very high concentrations in bronchial mucus and act even on atypical pathogens of bronchitis.

They have only one dosage form - tablets. Another type of macrolide is azithromycin. Drugs based on it are well-proven Sumamed, Zomax, Zocin, Azivok.

Fluoroquinolones. Drugs indicated in the treatment of severe forms of the disease. They have a wide antibacterial spectrum of action. Not used in pediatrics, only for the treatment of adults. Fluoroquinolones include: Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin, Gatimax, Avelox.

Aminoglycosides. These antibiotics have a good and fairly broad antibacterial effect and are used as an alternative to previous drugs for bronchitis. These include: Amikacin and Gentamicin. They have only one dosage form - tablets.

To alleviate the patient's condition while taking antibiotics, doctors often prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs that help relieve fever and improve general condition. These drugs also reduce swelling and bronchospasm, thereby promoting mucus discharge. The safest, most effective remedy in this series can be called Erespal (Fenspiride), which is indicated for both adults and children.

Antipyretics

In addition to coughing, bronchitis often causes fever. To help the patient in this condition, it is necessary to use antipyretics. I advise you to take them when your body temperature reaches 38.5 degrees. Antipyretic syrups for bronchitis are recommended for children: Paracetamol, Nurofen, Ibuprom, Ibuprofen. These drugs can also be used in the form of rectal suppositories. Read “Which syrup to choose for bronchitis in children” https://medboli.ru/lechenie-bronhita/kakoj-sirop-vybrat-pri-lechenii-bronhita-u-rebyonka.html

Bronchodilators

To relieve muscle tone in the bronchial cavity, eliminate attacks of suffocation, relieve attacks of shortness of breath, and normalize the breathing process, medications are used that can increase the lumen of the bronchi - bronchodilators. In the treatment of infectious diseases of the upper respiratory tract, the following classes of pharmacological agents are currently preferred:

• Adrenergic stimulants or adrenergic agonists. These are drugs whose active components stimulate beta-2 adrenergic receptors, thereby exerting a bronchodilator effect. Adrenomimetics act very quickly, reaching maximum concentration in the blood plasma within 15-20 minutes after administration.
• Anticholinergics. This is a group of drugs whose action is aimed at blocking M-cholinergic receptors and preventing spasm. Anticholinergics act slowly: peak effectiveness is achieved 30-50 minutes after administration.

Fenoterol-Nativ

• nervousness;
• dizziness;
• headache;
• irritation of the larynx;
• nausea or vomiting;
• cardiopalmus;
• allergic skin reactions.

Theotard

Long-acting bronchodilator. Contains the active component – ​​theophylline. Available in capsule form. The bronchodilator effect of theophylline develops gradually, so the medicine is not prescribed for the relief of emergency conditions. The average cost of a medicine in pharmacies varies depending on the dosage of the active substance:

• 40 capsules of 200 mg cost about 163 rubles;
• a pack of 40 capsules of 350 mg can be purchased for 225 rubles.

To select the optimal dose of Theotard, it is necessary to undergo blood tests to determine the individual level of theophylline in the serum and reduce the risk of side effects. The average dosage of medication for adults for bronchitis is 1 capsule every 12 hours. Course of use – 3 days. Capsules must not be opened or chewed. Theotard is not prescribed in the presence of the following diagnoses or conditions:

• pregnancy;
• lactation;
• epilepsy (a chronic disease accompanied by seizures, convulsions and loss of consciousness);
• acute myocardial infarction (damage to the heart muscle caused by impaired blood supply);
• extrasystole (a type of arrhythmia based on premature contraction of the heart muscle);
• peptic ulcers of the intestines or stomach.

Theotard is prescribed with caution and in reduced dosages for heart failure or impaired liver/kidney function. During treatment, adults may experience the following side effects:

• decreased appetite;
• diarrhea;
• nausea with vomiting;
• irritability;
• heartburn;
• stomach ache;
• tremor (shaking) of hands;
• increased sweating;
• insomnia.

Teopek

A modern, long-acting bronchodilator. Teopek, like Theotard, contains one active ingredient - theophylline. The medicine is available in capsule form. The average cost varies depending on the volume of active substance in the composition:

• a pack of 50 capsules of 100 mg can be purchased for 218-230 rubles;
• Teopek 200 mg, 50 pcs. costs 223 -250 rubles;
• 50 capsules of 300 mg theophylline – 342-358 rub.

For the treatment of bronchitis, Teopek is prescribed to adults at a dose of 300 mg. The daily dose is divided into 2 doses. The average therapeutic course ranges from two weeks to two months, depending on the severity of the disease. It is strictly forbidden to take capsules if you have the following diagnoses or conditions:

• epilepsy;
• gastritis;
• peptic ulcer of the stomach or intestines;
• myocardial infarction;
• atherosclerosis (cholesterol deposition) of blood vessels;
• heart rhythm disturbances - tachyarrhythmia, extrasystole;
• hyperfunction (increased production of hormones) of the thyroid gland;
• gastrointestinal bleeding;
• hemorrhagic stroke;
• severe arterial hypotension (decrease) or hypertension (increase in pressure).

During treatment, some patients may develop undesirable effects from the following organs and systems of the body:

• nervous – dizziness, agitation, insomnia;
• cardiovascular – tachycardia, arrhythmia, angina pectoris (sharp pain in the chest);
• stomach and intestines – nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, loss of appetite;
• allergic reactions - skin rash, itching.