Paul had a tough morning with the incessant coughing. We headed for the golf course but alas, Paul decided to stay in the bar (always a dangerous choice) and rest. Sue played nine holes with James and Bullwinkle.
Sue arranged for a doctor’s appointment at 4:00 and off we went. Excellent choice as Paul had bronchitis.
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the bronchi (the larger and medium-sized airways that carry airflow from the trachea into the more distal parts of the lung parenchyma). Bronchitis can be divided into two categories: acute and chronic. Paul was chronic!
Chronic bronchitis, a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is characterized by the presence of a productive cough that lasts for three months or more per year for at least two years. Chronic bronchitis usually develops due to recurrent injury to the airways caused by inhaled irritants. Cigarette smoking is the most common cause, followed by exposure to air pollutants such as sulfur dioxide or nitrogen dioxide, produced by vehicle exhausts and occupational exposure to respiratory irritants. Individuals exposed to cigarette smoke, chemical lung irritants, or who are immunocompromised have an increased risk of developing bronchitis.
We came back to Old Ranch after the appointment to a) do the necessary happy hour and b) wait for the pharmacy to prepare the wonderful concoction! Happy Hour was fun as we again brought out the bill (from last night) and gave it to Bunny telling her she has to split as she was part of the Monday activity.