Bronchitis: the most effective dietary supplements

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi that can be acute or chronic. The acute bronchitis is often caused by viral or bacterial infections, leading to temporary inflammation of the airways. The chronic bronchitis is a persistent condition, usually due to prolonged exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke. It is one of the major contributors to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a serious often irreversible lung disease that affects breathing. The acute bronchitis is very common and affects millions of people each year, especially during the winter months. While chronic bronchitis is more common among smokers.

Pathophysiology

Acute bronchitis often occurs following a viral infection, particularly from viruses such as rhinovirus or influenza virus. These pathogens destroy the ciliated cells that line the bronchial epithelium, which leads to mucus hypersecretion. This excessive mucus production obstructs the bronchi, making breathing more difficult and causing symptoms such as cough. In some cases, a secondary bacterial infection can worsen acute bronchitis, particularly in certain contexts (elderly patient, smoker, COPD...). The chronic bronchitis is characterized by regular hypersecretion of mucus in the bronchi. It is generally caused by long-term exposure to irritants. This condition causes ongoing inflammation of the airways, with progressive destruction of bronchial tissues, which reduces lung capacity and increases the risk of complications. Without treatment, chronic bronchitis can progress to severe respiratory failure, requiring long-term care.

Symptoms

The symptoms of bronchitis differ depending on whether it is acute or chronic. In the case of acute bronchitis, a persistent cough is often accompanied by mucus secretions that can be clear or discolored. Patients may experience fatigue, a low-grade fever, sore throat and chest pain. These symptoms are generally transient and improve after a few weeks, although they may persist longer in smokers or people with a history of lung disease. In chronic bronchitis, a productive cough is a key symptom, associated with excessive mucus production. This cough is often more pronounced in the morning and may be accompanied by shortness of breath and wheezing. Patients also report progressive breathing difficulty that worsens over time. For a diagnosis of chronic bronchitis to be made, these symptoms must persist for at least three months per year over a period of two consecutive years.

Treatment

Treatment of acute bronchitis is mainly based on supportive measures aimed at relieving symptoms. Rest is essential to allow the body to recover, while hydration helps to thin the mucus, making it easier to expel. The use of humidifiers can also soothe irritated airways. In some cases, cough suppressants are prescribed to reduce coughing, although these treatments are rarely necessary. If a bacterial infection is suspected, antibiotics may be prescribed. Treatment of chronic bronchitis is more complex and involves a multidisciplinary approach. Smoking cessation is the essential first step to slow disease progression. Bronchodilators are often prescribed to widen the airways and improve breathing. In some cases, corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation. Pulmonary rehabilitation is also recommended to strengthen the respiratory muscles and improve lung capacity. Finally, in severe forms of the disease, oxygen therapy may be necessary to maintain adequate blood oxygen levels. As a complement to conventional treatments, trace elements can play a role in managing chronic bronchitis. Selenium, in particular, is known for its antioxidant properties and may help reduce inflammation in the bronchi. It is often recommended at doses of 100 to 400 µg per day. In addition, gold can also be used for its anti-inflammatory effects, with doses ranging from 100 to 200 µg per day. These natural approaches, alongside medical treatment, may help reduce symptoms and improve patients' quality of life.