How spirometry can help manage chronic bronchitis

As a lifelong condition that can severely impact respiratory health, chronic bronchitis can be a challenge for sufferers. The increased breathing difficulties, along with fatigue and frequent infections, need to be managed properly to ensure patients can lead a normal life.

In this article, we will examine what chronic bronchitis is and how spirometry can help manage it for a better quality of life.

What is chronic bronchitis?

Chronic bronchitis is a long-term condition affecting the bronchi, i.e. the airways through which air is carried in and out of the lungs.

It is characterized by a persistent cough with heavy production of mucus. Chronic bronchitis is a type of COPD, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, as the excessive mucus and the swelling of the airways can act as obstructions, making it hard for the air to pass through.

Chronic bronchitis tends to worsen over time, leading to frequent infections, decreased saturation, fatigue, lung tissue damage, and, in severe cases, respiratory failure.

Causes and symptoms

Chronic bronchitis is most often caused by long-term exposure to irritants and harmful substances, the most common being cigarette smoke, dust, pollution or workplace chemicals, or a history of recurring lung infections. All these may lead to persistent inflammation of the bronchial tube lining, damage to cilia, mucus production, and swelling of the airways.

Common symptoms of chronic bronchitis are:

• Frequent wet cough, with recurring cough bursts in the morning
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing and exercise intolerance

How can chronic bronchitis be managed?

Although there is no cure for chronic bronchitis, the condition can be managed by building a combination of habits to improve respiratory health, such as:

• Lifestyle changes. Reducing or cutting out exposure to irritants, and smoke in particular, is the first step toward a better outcome
• Medication. Bronchodilators and steroids are the most commonly used medications for respiratory diseases like chronic bronchitis
• Pulmonary rehabilitation. Breathing techniques and specific exercises can strengthen the lungs and respiratory muscles
• Regular spirometry tests. Constant monitoring of lung function can help track progression over time, allowing for timely interventions when needed

The role of spirometry in the management of chronic bronchitis

Spirometry is a quick, non-invasive test that can provide critical insights into lung function, helping to diagnose and monitor respiratory conditions like chronic bronchitis.

By measuring how much air you can inhale and exhale and how quickly you can do so, spirometry can help detect obstructive patterns and assess the severity of the obstruction.

When it comes to chronic bronchitis, spirometry is a useful tool in each phase of the patient’s journey.

Diagnosis and assessment

Common symptoms of chronic respiratory conditions may initially be mistaken for a common infection like a cold or the flu. Spirometry helps in the early detection of chronic lung conditions by identifying decreased lung function even before the onset of symptoms.

Monitoring disease progression

Chronic bronchitis is a progressive condition that worsens over time if left unmanaged. Regular spirometry testing provides an overview of lung function changes, helping healthcare providers assess whether the disease is stable, improving, or deteriorating, and adjust treatment plans accordingly.

Evaluating treatment effectiveness

Spirometry tests can assess how well treatments are working by measuring lung function before and after the administration of medications. If there is little or no improvement, doctors may recommend alternative therapies.

Predicting exacerbations

Spirometry helps identify the risk of exacerbations by detecting declining lung function early. This allows doctors to take preventive measures, such as adjusting medications or recommending lifestyle changes to reduce the likelihood of hospital visits.

How often should spirometry be performed?

For individuals diagnosed with chronic bronchitis, spirometry is typically recommended at least once a year. However, the frequency may increase based on disease severity, recent exacerbations, or changes in symptoms. Patients should work closely with their healthcare providers to determine the appropriate testing schedule.