Bronchitis

What Is Bronchitis?

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry air to and from your lungs. When these tubes swell and produce mucus, it leads to the persistent cough commonly associated with bronchitis.

• Acute bronchitis usually develops after a cold or flu and typically improves within 1 to 3 weeks. The cough may linger longer, but most symptoms resolve without lasting effects.
• chronic bronchitis is a more serious, long-term condition. It involves a productive cough that lasts at least three months and recurs for at least two consecutive years. Chronic bronchitis is often linked to smoking, long-term exposure to irritants, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

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What Causes Bronchitis?

The causes of bronchitis vary depending on the type:

• Acute bronchitis: Most often caused by viruses, such as those responsible for the common cold or flu. Occasionally bacteria can be the trigger.
• Chronic bronchitis: Typically caused by long-term exposure to irritants like air pollution, dust, chemical fumes, or cigarette smoke. Risk is higher for smokers and those exposed to secondhand smoke.

Bronchitis Symptoms

Symptoms of acute and chronic bronchitis can overlap, but they often differ in duration.

Acute bronchitis symptoms:

• Persistent cough with or without mucus
• Chest soreness or discomfort
• Fatigue
• Mild headache or body aches
• Sore throat
• Low-grade fever and chills
• Shortness of breath or wheezing

Chronic bronchitis symptoms:

• Daily cough with mucus production
• Ongoing chest discomfort
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath, especially during activity

Bronchitis Treatment and Remedies

There is no quick cure for bronchitis, but treatment can relieve symptoms and help your body recover.

At-home care:

• Get plenty of rest
• Drink fluids to stay hydrated
• Use a humidifier or vaporizer
• Inhale steam from a shower or bowl of hot water
• Try saline nasal sprays to ease congestion
• Soothe your throat with honey or cough lozenges

Medications:

Over-the-counter medications may help relieve discomfort, reduce fever, and ease coughing. Antibiotics are rarely needed, since bronchitis is usually caused by viruses. Our providers can guide you on safe and effective options.

In some cases, urgent care providers may order additional tests like a chest X-ray, oxygen check, or mucus culture to rule out pneumonia or other conditions.

When to Seek Urgent Care for Bronchitis

Bronchitis usually improves with self-care, but you should visit urgent care if you experience:

• Cough lasting longer than three weeks
• Cough producing blood or thick, dark mucus
• High fever over 100.4° F
• Severe chest pain or discomfort when coughing
• Shortness of breath or wheezing that worsens
• Cough that prevents sleep or speaking comfortably
• Unintended weight loss or foul-tasting fluid in the mouth
• Signs of complications such as pneumonia

Prompt evaluation helps prevent bronchitis from developing into more serious respiratory problems, especially in children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.

Why choose us?

Our clinics are provider-owned. That means you get lower costs, no surprise billing, and more personal, attentive care from a team that puts patients first (click here to learn more).

We also offer:

• Walk-in visits (no appointment necessary)
• Care for adults & children (ages 2+)
• On-site X-rays, lab tests & vaccinations
• Bilingual Staff (English and Spanish)
• Weekend & extended hours
• All major insurance accepted
• Ample Parking