Bronchitis

Bronchitis is a common respiratory disorder in which the mucous lining of the respiratory passage and bronchioles gets inflamed. Bronchitis is of two types- Acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis or chest cold is the short-term inflammation of the bronchioles of the lungs; mostly the cause of acute bronchitis is a viral infection. It lasts for 5 to 10 days. Chronic bronchitis is defined as a productive cough that lasts for three months or more for at least two years. Most people with chronic bronchitis have the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Ayurvedic Description of Bronchitis

Bronchitis in Ayurveda is known as ShwasaPranaliShoth. It’s classified as a serious type of ShwasaRoga and begins with the impairment of digestive power. This is why in the preliminary stage of the disease or just before its onset, the patient complains of indigestion, constipation, or diarrhea. It can be either of Vataj, Pittaj, or Kaphaj nature but mostly of Kaphaj.

Signs & Symptoms

Coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest discomfort

Causes and Risk Factors

• Cigarette smoking- People who smoke or who live with a smoker are at a higher risk of both acute bronchitis and chronic bronchitis.
• Poor immunity- This may result from another acute illness, such as cold, or from a chronic condition that compromises the immune system.
• Environmental – The risk of developing bronchitis is greater around certain lung irritants such as grains, textiles or exposure to chemical fumes.
• Gastric reflux – Repeated bouts of severe heartburn can irritate the throat and thus more chances of developing bronchitis.

Self Care Tips

• A teaspoon of turmeric powder should be mixed in a glass of milk and to be taken two times daily. It is more effective if taken on an empty stomach.
• Sour substances, pickles, and curd should be strictly avoided. Also, items like cold drinks and ice creams should be avoided. Fruits like bananas and guavas are contraindicated in this condition.
• Foods, which are easy to digest, should be preferred, and ample amounts of green leafy vegetables should be included in the diet.
• Alcohol and tobacco should be strictly avoided.
• Exposure to cold wind and rain should be avoided. Also one should avoid excess humidity, dust, and allergic pollens.
• Heavy physical exercises should not be done.

Bronchitis is a common upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) seen these days. Ayurvedic drugs used in this condition are harmless and effective in terms of treating such infectious diseases.