Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Chronic Bronchitis
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Treatment & Monitoring
What are the treatments for the condition?
WHO has identified the following four components for management of chronic bronchitis:
Assessment and monitoring
Assessment and monitoring of the disease incorporates the following steps:
Reducing risk factors
Reducing the person's risk factors includes the following recommendations:
Managing stable chronic bronchitis
Management of stable chronic bronchitis includes the following:
WHO recommendations for management of chronic bronchitis are broken down by the severity of the disease. Recommendations for Stage 0 chronic bronchitis include the following:
Recommendations for Stage I chronic bronchitis are the same as those for Stage 0. In addition, people with Stage I chronic bronchitis should use short-acting bronchodilators as needed. Bronchodilators relieve coughing and shortness of breath by opening the airways. In general, WHO recommends inhaled bronchodilators rather than oral medications.
Recommendations of Stage II chronic bronchitis include the recommendations from Stage I. Additional measures are recommended for times when symptoms are present. They include the following:
WHO recommendations for Stage III chronic bronchitis are as follows:
Managing worsening symptoms
People with chronic bronchitis may have worsening, or exacerbation, of symptoms when they develop a respiratory infection. Symptoms may also be worsened by cigarette smoke, as well as other factors. Following are the WHO guidelines for management of worsening symptoms:
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Bronchodilators may cause an increased heart rate and blood pressure. Oral glucocorticosteroids can cause increased risk for infection, high blood sugar, and osteoporosis. Antibiotics can cause rash, stomach upset, and allergic reaction.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Early diagnosis of chronic bronchitis and effective treatment can slow its progression. People who eliminate risk factors and follow treatment guidelines have better outcomes. Those who continue to smoke may be increasingly disabled by breathing problems and complications of chronic bronchitis.
How is the condition monitored?
Chronic bronchitis is monitored through regular visits with the healthcare provider. Lung function tests can be used to monitor limitations in airflow. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.