Understanding Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is a respiratory condition characterized by a productive cough that persists for at least three months, with recurring episodes occurring over two consecutive years. It is a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and requires ongoing management to improve quality of life.

Symptoms of Chronic Bronchitis:

• Persistent cough, often accompanied by mucus production
• Mucus (sputum) that may be clear, white, yellowish-gray, or green; occasionally streaked with blood
• Fatigue and decreased energy levels
• Shortness of breath, particularly during physical activity
• Slight fever and chills
• Chest discomfort or tightness

Causes of Chronic Bronchitis:

• Asthma: Pre-existing asthma can contribute to chronic bronchitis.
• Pulmonary emphysema: Often occurs alongside chronic bronchitis, causing further lung damage.
• Scarring of the lungs (pulmonary fibrosis): Can lead to chronic inflammation.
• Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses can affect breathing.
• Tuberculosis: Previous infections can lead to lung complications.
• Upper respiratory infections: Frequent infections can trigger chronic bronchitis.

The Role of Physical Therapy:

Your physical therapist is a vital member of your healthcare team and will collaborate with you to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific goals. This may include:

• Specialized exercises to strengthen the muscles used for walking and arm movements
• Training to increase aerobic capacity and reduce feelings of shortness of breath
• Utilizing equipment such as recumbent bikes, treadmills, or recumbent steppers to improve cardiovascular endurance and lung function

If you are dealing with chronic bronchitis, working with a physical therapist can help you manage your symptoms and enhance your overall respiratory health, enabling you to lead a more active and fulfilling life.

At Reddy Care Physical and Occupational Therapy, we can get you set up with the right therapist for you. Call today to schedule a consultation!

Great Neck: 475 Northern Blvd., Ste.11, Great Neck, NY 11021  Tel. (516) 829.0030

Farmingdale: 309 North West Dr., Farmingdale, NY 11735   Tel. (516) 420.2900

Woodbury: 150 Woodbury Rd., Woodbury, NY 11797   Tel. (516) 367.1111

Deer Park: 2024 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park, NY 11729   Tel. (631) 243.0247

North Shore Towers: 272-78 Grand Central Pkwy., Floral Park, NY 11005  Tel. (516) 344.0030

Bayside - Aquatic Therapy: 208-32 Cross Island Pkwy., Bayside, NY11360  Tel. (718) 224.8480

Oceanside: 2421 S Long Beach Rd., Oceanside, NY 11572  Tel. (516) 992.2282

New York City: 250 West 93rd Street, New York, NY 10025 Tel. (212) 580.0125

Bay Shore: 1470 Sunrise Highway Bay Shore NY, 11706 Tel:(631)-446.1480

Amityville: 565 Albany Ave Amityville NY, 11701 Tel:(631)-532.0906

 In-Home Physical & Occupational Therapy (Home Care): Tel: (516) 829.0030 

*Home therapy servicing Long Island, Queens, Staten Island, Brooklyn, the Bronx & Manhattan*

Sources: Resource 1  Resource 2 

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Written by:

Dr. Vinod Somareddy, PT, DPT

President

Reddy Care Physical Therapy

Reddy Care Occupational Therapy

Reddy Care Aquatic Therapy 

Author

Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy is an outstanding specialty service providing exceptional care and state-of-the-art treatments for the residents of Farmingdale and Great Neck, New York. The combination of innovative exercise programs, manual therapy, and technology together with the expertise of every member of the team enables Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy to provide services that ensure superior clinical outcomes and consistently high patient satisfaction.