Experts say: How to tell if the cold has passed down to the lungs - Albeu.com

This cold period is full of viruses and many people complain that they have a cold. But sometimes the cold can turn into bronchitis. That's why it's important to know what to expect even when something more serious happens. A cough is the most common symptom of a cold. This is because your lungs may be irritated or your body may be trying to get rid of the secretions. But if you still cough after a long time has passed since you think you have a cold then you should see a doctor.

You should also be careful and notice if there is something that makes your cough worse, eg any other unusual sensations or if you cough up secretions. (An unusual cough, fever or shortness of breath can also be a sign of Covid-19. Coughing with blood, green or yellow secretions can be a sign of serious illness. While a cough for a very long time can be a sign of asthma.)

But what is bronchitis or a chest cold?

Bronchitis occurs when the airways in the lungs are inflamed and produce too much mucus. There are two main types of bronchitis:

Acute bronchitis is more common and is usually caused by a viral infection. Acute bronchitis can also be called a chest cold. This can be made worse by smoking. People often describe this type of bronchitis as worse than a common cold, but not as bad as pneumonia.

Chronic bronchitis is a cough that lasts 2 to 3 months every year for at least 2 years. Smoking is the most common cause of chronic bronchitis. Other causes include exposure to smoke, air pollution, dust or toxic gases.

Bronchitis symptoms can be: frequent cough with secretions, lack of energy, fever, a whistling sound when you breathe.

Home remedies for bronchitis include: drink fluids every 1 to 2 hours, unless your doctor restricts fluid intake, get plenty of rest, don't smoke. You can ease the pain by taking an anti-inflammatory medicine. Be careful if you cough up secretions and the color of the secretions. Because viruses are most often the cause of bronchitis, antibiotics usually do not help.

If you have a cold and want to avoid bronchitis what you need to do is not to smoke, do not allow others to smoke in your home, stay away from objects or things that can irritate your nose, throat and lungs (eg pets, dust, etc.), maintain a healthy diet, wash your hands often, do not share food, glasses, or utensils with others and take medications as advised by your doctor.