Bronchitis is a respiratory illness that is particularly dangerous for seniors. Seniors who are over the age of 65 have a very high risk of developing bronchitis, especially during the cold winter months. Bronchitis can be caused by a virus, or it can develop from a bacterial infection. Often bronchitis starts as a cold or the flu and becomes a more disease respiratory disease as time goes on. Home care providers can help seniors who are struggling with the flu or a cold. Chronic bronchitis can also be caused by environmental factors like allergens or poor air quality.
Seniors who get a cold or the flu need to make sure they follow their doctor’s advice and take any prescribed medication to avoid getting bronchitis. With home care, seniors can rest while a home care provider makes meals, cleans up the house, and makes sure that your senior parent has all the medication they need.
The symptoms of bronchitis can mimic the symptoms of other respiratory illnesses. If you notice that your senior parent has any of these symptoms don’t wait to get them in to see their doctor.
Cough
The most noticeable symptom of bronchitis is a dry hacking cough. It can be a very severe cough that won’t go away. As the infection progresses the cough may change to a more “wet” or phlegm-based cough.
Shortness of Breath
Being short of breath is another common symptom of bronchitis. Because there are lots of things that can cause seniors to be short of breath they may not think this is a serious symptom, but it is. If you notice that your senior parent is often short of breath or is having trouble breathing get them to a doctor right away.
Chest Discomfort
Many people with bronchitis report a feeling of tightness or discomfort in the chest. This sensation can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by a heaviness in the chest area.
Fatigue
Fatigue is something that many seniors have most of the time because of various medical conditions. But if your senior parent has more extreme fatigue than usual take that seriously.
Wheezing
Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound that occurs when air flows through narrowed airways. It is often heard during breathing and can be a sign of bronchial tube constriction, a common occurrence in bronchitis.
Sore Throat
Irritation in the throat is a frequent symptom of bronchitis, particularly in the early stages. The persistent cough associated with bronchitis can lead to throat discomfort and a scratchy or sore throat.
Fever
In some cases, individuals with bronchitis may experience a low-grade fever that lingers. Anytime a senior has a fever that’s a sign that an infection is present. Because some types of bronchitis are viral and some are bacterial your senior parent needs to see a doctor to find out which type they have.
More Mucus
The inflammation of the bronchial tubes triggers an increase in mucus production. This mucus can be clear, white, yellow, or greenish and is often coughed up during bouts of coughing.
Bluish Lips or Fingernails
In severe cases or when bronchitis leads to complications, a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream can cause a bluish tint to the lips or fingernails. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.
Sources: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bronchitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355566
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/3993-bronchitis
https://www.verywellhealth.com/bronchitis-facts-6499436
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care Services in Selma CA please get in touch with the caring staff at A-Plus In Home Care, Inc. today. Call (559) 224-9442.
A-Plus In Home Care, Inc. is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Fresno, Clovis, Sunnyside, Fowler, Reedley, Selma, Sanger, Madera CA, and surrounding areas.
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