The consequences of obstructive bronchitis

Respiratory system - a complex mechanism that ensures a constant gas exchange between external environment and the cell structures of the human body. The mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, like skin, are in direct contact with the outside air, so it is not surprising that it is on its purity depends largely on the condition of the respiratory system. So, the unfavorable environment, the presence of harmful substances in the air of industrial areas as well as addiction to smoking are factors that may eventually lead to the development of such diseases as obstructive bronchitis.

What changes in the body

This respiratory disease tend to the gradual development of destructive changes in which the mucosa of the small bronchi becomes less protected to aggressive pathogens.

Continuing the attacked harmful gases and dust particles of solid inner surface of the bronchi impairs their functional activity in several ways. Firstly, the activity deteriorates so-called secretory goblet cells, which are responsible for the formation of a protective slime on the inner surface of the bronchi. A layer of protective mucus prevents solid aerosols harmful gases and pathogens exert their destructive effects on the epithelium. Accordingly, the thinner the layer of mucus, the easier aggressive environmental factors "get" to the unprotected surface of the bronchi.

Secondly, so-called reduced mucociliary activity. As we recall from anatomy, airways almost all covered over special ciliated epithelium, which is equipped with special spikes. These processes (or cilia) is constantly shrinking, directing them immediately above the mucus out. Thus we get rid of the dust trapped in the bronchi and microbes. This phenomenon is called the mucociliary activity of the bronchi. Obviously, the lower it is, the more chances to preserve microbes in the body.

Thirdly, the intensity falls local immunity. The fact is that in the lumen of the bronchial tree is constantly "ply" large- macrophages - guardians of our health, that detection of bronchial stuck in "networks" microbe it immediately absorb and digest. Regular attack by atmospheric hazards create conditions under which the macrophages can not function properly, which, of course, sharply reduces their activity.

In addition, small caliber bronchial passages lose their elasticity, which leads to narrowing of the lumen. This phenomenon is the basis of development of obstructive bronchitis ("obstruction" in Latin means "obstacle"). As a result, the exhalation is required to make a definite effort to air safely passed through the narrowing of the bronchial tubes (ie smaller bronchial branches). Gradually, this leads to the fact that the alveoli (the structural and functional units of light, ie those destinations, which is carried out and the gas exchange between the atmospheric air and blood) was first extended by the increased pressure in them, and then completely destroyed. This can join and gain slizeobrazovaniya goblet cells, which further aggravate the situation.

What are the clinical manifestations of obstructive bronchitis?

One of the first signs - a persistent cough, which appears as a natural defensive reaction to the irritant effect of environmental factors. Since the pathology develops very slowly, the cough may be almost the only symptom for many years. Then it is joined noisy wheezing, which arises as a result of difficulties output expiratory air through the constricted bronchioles. This breath is often heard even without a phonendoscope. This disturbed the ratio of the length of the cycle "take a breath" in the direction of extension of expiration. Sometimes even exhalation connected accessory muscles (abdominal, major and minor pectoral muscle, etc.).

For the purpose of successful treatment of the patient is vital to how to stop smoking, and to change the working environment, if his work is associated with the presence of harmful industrial atmosphere. Sometimes there is a question about the change of place of residence, if the patient lives in an ecologically unfavorable areas. With regard to drug therapy, it is necessary to designate drugs that enhance the lumen of the bronchi and reduce increased mucus secretion (if this is necessary), and other symptomatic agents. In severe current can be assigned to hormonal treatments. However, the treatment of obstructive bronchitis requires a comprehensive approach taking into account the large number of different factors, so before determining treatment strategies necessary to carry out a whole range of clinical research.

  Zhiguli Andrew