Chronic Bronchitis

Overview

Chronic bronchitis can make it difficult to enjoy the activities you love. Frequent coughing can make you feel fatigued and cause your throat to feel sore. It can also increase your risk of getting an infection, like the cold or flu. Because you have difficulty breathing, you may tire easily and not feel up to going out or exercising.

Living with chronic bronchitis means you must make lifestyle changes. If you smoke, quitting will improve your chronic bronchitis. You should also receive a flu vaccination every year and wash your hands often. Though difficult, exercise will keep your lungs and heart healthier.

Treatment

IU Health Pulmonology & Respiratory Care physicians have expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic bronchitis. IU Health researchers conduct studies that provide you with the latest treatments and knowledge of chronic bronchitis. Physicians focus on getting you well using the latest technologies and strategies available. We understand how to use lifestyle changes, education and medication therapies to improve your overall health and quality of life. We take the time to get to know you so we can offer you a comprehensive treatment plan that fits your lifestyle.

IU Health Pulmonology & Respiratory Care physicians will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to manage your chronic bronchitis. Services include:

• Education. Certain lifestyle changes may reduce the severity of your chronic bronchitis symptoms.
• Smoking cessation support. Quitting smoking is crucial for improving your chronic bronchitis. Our physicians can give you the support and resources you need to succeed.
• Prescription medications. Medications like prescription inhalers can help control your symptoms.
• Pulmonary rehabilitation. Pulmonary rehabilitation will teach you physical and breathing exercises to improve your ability to breathe.
• Oxygen therapy. Because your chronic bronchitis can prevent your body from getting the oxygen it needs, oxygen therapy may help your body work better.
• Bullectomy. Bullae, or air pockets, form in damaged areas of the lungs. By removing these areas with surgery, our physicians can improve lung function.
• Lung volume reduction surgery. Damaged areas of the lungs are removed during surgery so that you can breathe better.
• Lung transplant. In severe cases of chronic bronchitis, a lung transplant may be necessary. IU Health is the only provider of lung transplants in the state of Indiana.