Oxygen therapy and Chonic Bronchitis

 

What is oxygen therapy?

Because of the damage to lungs due to chronic bronchitis, the lungs may not be able to get enough oxygen into the body. Therefore, a doctor may prescribe oxygen supplementation if the chronic bronchitis is severe and medicine doesn\'t help.

If prescribed oxygen therapy, one must use it day and night to get the most advantage. Oxygen can help breathe better, easier and therefore live longer.

A few other suggestions:
* Exercising regularly so as to strengthen the muscles that help breathe. Start by exercising slowly and for just a little while at a time. Then slowly increase the time you exercise each day and also how fast you exercise.
* An exercise regime called pulmonary rehabilitation may also help improve breathing. Pulmonary rehabilitation is usually given by a respiratory therapist.
* A breathing method called \"pursed-lip breathing\" also helps. To do this, take a deep breath and then breathe out slowly through the mouth while holding the lips as if going to kiss someone. Pursed-lip breathing slows down the fast breathing and helps one feel better.
* Drink a minimum of eight glasses of water or other fluids every day. This will help to keep the mucus thin, making it easier to cough up. Avoid sugar and dairy products because they tend to weaken the immune system and stimulate excessive mucus production.
* Avoid taking cough suppressants, as it may cause mucus buildup and can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia.
* Avoid taking antihistamines or decongestants as these medications can worsen the situation by drying the airways and causing the mucus to thicken.
* Stay away from chemicals, dust, paints, insecticides and other respiratory irritants as these worsen the condition.

Remember, if symptoms do not ease within 48 hours or mucus colour changes, one must immediately call a doctor.