Causes of Bronchitis
Causes of bronchitis vary depending on whether the condition is acute or chronic. The most common causes of bronchitis include viral infections, smoking, air pollution, and exposure to irritants like dust or chemical fumes. Understanding the cause helps determine the best treatment and prevent future episodes.
Acute bronchitis is usually caused by viruses such as rhinovirus, influenza, parainfluenza, or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). These viruses infect the nose, throat, and then travel down to the bronchi, triggering inflammation. Because it’s viral, antibiotics are not effective unless there’s a secondary bacterial infection.
Bacterial infections are a less common cause of acute bronchitis. Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae, and Bordetella pertussis (which causes whooping cough) are examples of bacteria that may lead to bronchitis, particularly in people with compromised immunity.
Chronic bronchitis is almost always linked to long-term irritation of the lungs. The main culprit is cigarette smoke. Smokers inhale harmful substances that damage the bronchial linings and reduce the lungs’ ability to clear mucus, making them prone to persistent inflammation and infection.
Causes of bronchitis
Exposure to environmental pollutants such as smog, dust, or industrial chemicals can also cause chronic irritation. People working in mining, farming, or manufacturing are at higher risk.
Repeated bouts of acute bronchitis, particularly if poorly treated or combined with ongoing irritant exposure, can eventually lead to chronic bronchitis.
Other risk factors include passive smoking, weak immune systems, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), and underlying conditions such as asthma or allergic rhinitis.
Recognising the causes of bronchitis is essential for both treatment and prevention. Avoiding smoking, reducing exposure to pollutants, and managing infections early can lower the risk of bronchitis, especially in high-risk individuals.
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