Bronchitis: Symptoms and Treatment
When the lung airways become inflamed, it causes coughing and excess mucus production. This is otherwise known as bronchitis. Bronchitis can be either acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis is very common. It affects people of all ages and has easily recognizable symptoms.
Symptoms of Bronchitis
Symptoms associated with bronchitis include persistent coughing, hoarseness, shortness of breath, congestion, and wheezing. Sometimes, bronchitis causes a runny nose and a low-grade fever. A bronchitis cough is typically productive with a significant amount of mucus.
Bronchitis Causes
Various triggers can cause a bout of bronchitis. The most common include viral infections, especially the flu or a cold. Allergens and air pollutants can also give rise to bronchitis. In some cases, a bacterial infection may lead to bronchitis. Other bronchitis causes include cigarette smoke, old age, a history of COPD or asthma, and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).
It is important to note that a person with chronic bronchitis is not at higher risk of contracting COVID-19. However, having chronic bronchitis can increase the risk of COVID-19 complications.
Diagnosing Bronchitis
Bronchitis symptoms may mimic those of other conditions. Therefore, a doctor will review the medical history and symptoms of a patient before making a diagnosis. They will also do a physical examination, listening to the lungs for abnormal sounds. Some doctors insist on chest X-rays to rule out pneumonia. A sputum test may also be necessary to check for viral or bacterial infection.
Treating Bronchitis
Viral bronchitis usually goes away with rest, hydration, and cough medicine. Antibiotics may be required if the cause of bronchitis is a bacterial infection. Chronic bronchitis might require inhalers or other medications to reduce inflammation and keep the airways open.
Preventing Bronchitis
Preventing bronchitis usually means avoiding infections by washing hands and avoiding contact with sick people. However, it is also important to stop smoking. Other means of prevention include:
- Avoiding fumes and second-hand smoke
- Getting pneumonia or flu vaccine, depending on age
- Getting a COVID-19 vaccine and booster shots
Legacy ER & Urgent Care has convenient locations throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and you don't need to make an appointment.
Sources:
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/bronchitis#What-is-bronchitis