Understanding Acute Bronchitis
What is Acute Bronchitis?
Acute bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the major airways into the lungs. It may be caused by a variety of bacteria and viruses. These viruses can be spread in the air when a person coughs. They also can be spread through physical contact, such as through unwashed hands.
How Serious is Acute Bronchitis?
Acute bronchitis can last from a few days to 10 days. But the cough that comes with acute bronchitis may last for several weeks after the infection has gone.
Acute bronchitis may develop on its own, or as a result of an upper respiratory infection, pertussis (whooping cough) or other infection.
Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatments of Acute Bronchitis
What are the Symptoms of Acute Bronchitis?
The symptoms of acute bronchitis may include:
- Cough, which may produce clear, yellow or green mucus
- Wheezing
- Low fever
- Chest tightness or pain
- Shortness of breath (in severe cases)
Your healthcare provider will ask questions about your medical history and your symptoms, such as whether you've recently had a cold or the flu. He or she may also ask whether you smoke or are exposed to smoke or other lung irritants such as air pollution, dust or fumes.
Your healthcare provider will listen to your lungs with a stethoscope to detect abnormal breathing sounds such as wheezing. Other possible tests include:
- Examination of mucus to see if you have a bacterial infection
- Test for blood oxygen levels using a sensor attached to your finger or toe
- Chest x-ray
- Lung function tests
- Blood tests
How is Acute Bronchitis Treated?
Your healthcare provider may recommend rest, lots of fluids, and fever-reducing medication such as acetaminophen.
If your he or she thinks you have a bacterial infection, you may be given antibiotics. But antibiotics don't work against viruses, which are the most common cause of acute bronchitis.
Other treatments may include:
- A humidifier or steam to ease breathing and help loosen mucus
- Inhaled medicine to open airways if you are wheezing
- Cough medicine
Preventing Acute Bronchitis
Avoiding lung irritants is important for preventing acute bronchitis as well as treating it. If you smoke, quit. To help protect your lungs, wear a mask over your mouth and nose when using lung irritants such as paint, paint remover or varnish.
Other ways to help prevent acute bronchitis include:
- Wash your hands often to reduce your exposure to viruses and bacteria
- Get a flu shot every year
- Ask your doctor if you should get a pneumonia shot, especially if you're 60 or older
Source: American Lung Association
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