What is bronchitis?

Bronchitis refers to an infection or irritation of the bronchi-the passageway from the windpipe (trachea) to the lungs while pneumonia refers to infection or irritation of the lungs. Both of these conditions are much more common in the winter, as they usually follow an upper respiratory infection (cold).

WARNING: Symptoms of bronchitis or pneumonia including a persistent cough may indicate a serious condition. Consult your physician if you have symptoms suggestive of pneumonia or if a cough persists for more than one week, if it recurs, or if it is accompanied by high fever, rash, or persistent headache.

Signs and symptoms of bronchitis include bouts of coughing, shaking, chills, fever, and chest pain that are usually preceded by an upper respiratory tract infection (cold). Pneumonia differs from bronchitis in that it shows the classic signs of lung involvement (shallow breathing, cough, abnormal breath sounds, etc.) and a chest X ray shows infiltration of fluid and lymph into the lungs. Since the two are difficult to distinguish without a physician, please consult a physician if you are experiencing any symptoms suggestive of pneumonia.

What causes bronchitis?

Bronchitis can be caused by a variety of microorganism especially viruses and bacteria. In healthy individuals, bronchitis most often follows an insult to the immune system. Viral infection (especially influenza or the common cold), cigarette smoke and other noxious fumes, loss of consciousness (which depresses the gag reflex, allowing the breathing in of fluids [aspiration]), cancer, or hospitalization (due to increased exposure to organisms that can cause pneumonia) are all risk factors for bronchitis and pneumonia.

What dietary factors are important in bronchitis?

Optimal immune function requires a healthy diet that (1) is rich in whole, natural foods, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, seeds, and nuts, (2) is low in fats and refined sugars, and (3) contains adequate, but not excessive, amounts of protein. On top of this, drink five or six 8-ounce glasses of water per day (preferably pure water). These dietary recommendations go a long way in helping the immune system function at an optimum level. Please see LOW IMMUNE FUNCTION for more recommendations.

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Medical Disclaimer

• Dr. Dyler's recommendations and protocols for nutritional support are not intended as a substitute for appropriate medical care.
• The products and the claims made about specific products on or through this site have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration and are not approved to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.
• If you have a medical condition or disease, please talk to your doctor prior to using the recommendations given.
• Do not self-diagnose. Proper medical care is critical to good health. If you have a health concern or undiagnosed sign or symptom, please consult a physician, preferably a naturopathic doctor (N.D.), nutritionally oriented medical doctor (M.D. or (D.O.), or other health care specialist. Please go to www.naturopathic.org to find a qualified naturopathic doctor (N.D.) in your area to help you.
• Make your physician aware of all the nutritional supplements or herbal products you are currently taking to avoid any negative interactions with any drugs you are taking.
• If you are currently taking a prescription medication, you absolutely must work with your doctor before discontinuing any drug or altering any drug regimen.