AECB is an acronym that stands for "Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis." It refers to a sudden worsening of symptoms in individuals who already have chronic bronchitis, a long-term condition characterized by inflammation and irritation of the bronchial tubes, leading to excessive mucus production, coughing, and difficulty breathing.
During an AECB episode, the symptoms of chronic bronchitis intensify and become severe for a period of time. This can be triggered by various factors such as exposure to irritants like cigarette smoke, air pollution, allergens, respiratory infections, or changes in weather conditions. The exacerbation causes a notable decline in lung function, resulting in increased breathlessness, persistent coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and fatigue. It is important to note that an AECB is different from an acute bronchitis episode, which is a temporary inflammation of the bronchial tubes due to infections.
Management of AECB typically involves a combination of treatments to alleviate symptoms, improve lung function, and minimize further complications. This often includes medications such as bronchodilators to dilate the airways and reduce inflammation, oral corticosteroids to reduce airway inflammation, expectorants to help clear mucus, as well as supplemental oxygen therapy in severe cases. Antibiotics may also be prescribed if the exacerbation is caused by a bacterial infection. Additionally, lifestyle modifications such as smoking cessation, avoiding environmental triggers, and maintaining good respiratory hygiene can help prevent future AECB episodes and manage the underlying chronic bronchitis condition. Regular follow-up with healthcare professionals is crucial to monitor lung function and adjust treatment as needed.
