Bronchitis occurs when the bronchial tubes, which carry air to your lungs, become inflamed and irritated. This inflammation causes the tubes to swell and produce mucus, leading to coughing.
Acute and Chronic Bronchitis
- Acute bronchitis develops quickly and typically resolves within 2 to 3 weeks. Most healthy individuals recover without complications.
- Chronic bronchitis is a long-lasting condition that frequently recurs, especially in smokers. It is characterized by a persistent cough with mucus for most days of the month over at least three months per year for two consecutive years.
Symptoms of Bronchitis
The hallmark symptom of acute bronchitis is a dry, hacking cough that may later produce mucus. Other symptoms often include:
- Chest discomfort
- Cough with mucus: Yellow-green mucus may indicate a bacterial infection.
- Fatigue
- Low-grade fever
- Shortness of breath, which can worsen with exertion or light activity.
- Wheezing
Symptoms of acute bronchitis usually begin 3 to 4 days after an upper respiratory infection. While most people recover within 2 to 3 weeks, some may experience a lingering cough for over 4 weeks.
What Causes Acute Bronchitis?
Acute bronchitis is most often caused by a virus, typically following an upper respiratory infection like a cold or the flu. In rare cases, bacteria can be the cause.
In addition to viral or bacterial infections, irritants such as smoke can also lead to acute bronchitis. Inhaling food or vomit into the lungs may also trigger the condition.
Factors that can worsen bronchitis include:
- Air pollution
- Allergies
- Certain occupations (e.g., coal mining, textile manufacturing, grain handling)
- Infections
Pneumonia vs. Bronchitis
Pneumonia shares some symptoms with acute bronchitis but tends to be more severe. Look for signs such as a high fever, shaking chills, and pronounced shortness of breath. Since pneumonia can be serious, it’s important to recognize these differences and seek medical care if needed.
How is Acute Bronchitis Treated?
Most cases of acute bronchitis can be managed at home. Here are some tips to help relieve symptoms:
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
- Use an over-the-counter cough medicine with an expectorant, as recommended by your doctor, to help loosen mucus.
- Suck on cough drops or hard candies to soothe a dry or sore throat. While these won’t stop the cough, they can provide some relief for your throat.
Feel Better. Live Better.
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic lung condition where inflamed airways become more swollen when triggered, causing coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
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Skin Allergies
Bronchitis occurs when the bronchial tubes, which carry air to your lungs, become inflamed and irritated. This inflammation causes the tubes to swell and produce mucus, leading to coughing.
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