Patient's question:
My friend has been feeling unwell recently and went to the hospital for a thorough check-up. The doctor said it was bronchitis. How should elderly people deal with bronchitis?Doctor's answer:
Chronic bronchitis in the elderly is caused by repeated infections of viruses and bacteria, leading to chronic non-specific inflammation of the urethra. Chronic effects such as smoke, dust, and industrial air pollution can trigger the disease. Smoking causes bronchial spasm, mucosal changes, reduced ciliary activity, and continuous increase in mucus secretion, facilitating transmission; individuals with an allergic constitution have a certain likelihood of experiencing bronchitis again. Maintaining good household hygiene and ensuring fresh indoor air supply with appropriate humidity, as well as controlling and completely eliminating various harmful gases and dust, are essential. Stabilizing environmental hygiene, implementing dust and air pollution prevention training, and enhancing personal protection can prevent the interference of smoke, dust, and irritating gases on the respiratory tract.