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What Is Bronchospasm?

  • Bronchospasm in and of itself is not a disease, but rather a symptom of other conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. Bronchospasm is a narrowing and contraction of the bronchi, which results in the narrowing of the airway
  • Bronchospasm comes in two different forms; and acute bronchospasm
  • Bronchospasm symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and tightness in the chest. Acute bronchospasm is often associated with bronchial asthma and repeated bouts of bronchitis
  • Bronchospasm treatment methods include a variety of medications that relax the airways as well as anti-inflammatory drugs, and avoidance of bronchial irritants


There is a major difference in paradoxical bronchospasm and acute bronchospasm. Paradoxical bronchospasm is brought about when a person takes medication that is supposed to relieve bronchospasm. For instance, a person may get a paradoxical bronchospasm immediately after consuming some cough medicine intended to alleviate acute bronchospasm. The most typical reason for paradoxical bronchospasm is an allergic reaction to the medication being taken with the result of bronchospam symptoms becoming temporarily worse.

Bronchospasm treatment comes in many forms and are the same methods used to treat bronchial asthma. Beta2-agonists are used to relax the airways and the muscles surrounding the walls of the bronchial tubes. The vast majority of Beta-agonist drugs are prescription medications. The most common drugs used to treat bronchospasm symptoms are Albuterol, Proventil, and Ventolin. The anti-inflammatory drug most commonly used to treat acute bronchospasm symptoms and bronchial asthma are inhaled corticosteroids cromolyn sodium.

Both paradoxical bronchospasm symptoms and acute bronchospasm symptoms can be increased by certain irritants that irritate the nose, throat, and bronchi. Dust, sprays, and especially cigarette smoke can increase the need to bronchospasm treatment because of the irritation.

Other triggers that can cause both acute bronchospasm and paradoxical bronchospasm are allergies, exercise, upper respiratory infections, and negative emotions. The most common allergies are pet dander, pollen, mold, and foods. The most common cause of acute bronchospasm and paradoxical bronchospasm is far and away bronchial asthma.

Bronchospasm treatment and methods should be taken seriously as a sever bout of bronchospasm can lead to death. It is best to consult with an expert in the field of asthma to ensure proper bronchospasm treatment and medication can be prescribed if needed.

The patient should do their best to avoid potential triggers. A healthy diet and plenty of water consumption is also helpful form of bronchospasm treatment. Clan air ducts and the replacement of air filters in the home are also strategies that can be used to reduce bronchospasm symptoms. It is also important to keep the living quarter’s properly dusted and cleaned at all times.

For patients who experience paradoxical bronchospasm it is critical to notify your physician immediately to indicate what medications you are allergic to. Suffering from bronchospasm bouts does not have to seriously hamper your day to day living if properly treated. Talking to your physician and then pre-treating your symptoms using a bronchodilator can prevent attacks and allow you to conduct normal activities, and even intense exercise.

The information supplied in this article is not to be considered as medical advice and is for educational purposes only.