General Information About Bronchitis
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the condition where the mucous membrane on the inner surface of the main airways (bronchi) that transport the air we breathe to the lungs becomes inflamed, swells, and produces excessive mucus.
Acute bronchitis usually begins after a viral infection contracted during the winter months and heals within 1-3 weeks. Chronic bronchitis is mostly associated with smoking, lasts for months, and is part of COPD.
The most common cause of acute bronchitis is the viruses that cause the common cold and flu. The primary cause of chronic bronchitis is prolonged exposure to tobacco smoke, as well as air pollution, chemical gases, and dust.
The most fundamental symptom of the disease is a persistent and productive cough. This can be accompanied by wheezing in the chest, mild shortness of breath, fatigue, and in acute cases, a slight fever.
A Pulmonology specialist listening to breathing sounds with a stethoscope is usually sufficient for a diagnosis. If there is a suspicion of pneumonia or if the severity of chronic bronchitis needs to be measured, a Chest X-ray and Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT) are requested.
Antibiotics are not used in viral acute bronchitis; rest, plenty of fluids, expectorants, and cough suppressants are given. If there is a bacterial infection, an antibiotic is prescribed. In chronic bronchitis, quitting smoking and using bronchodilator (inhaler) medications are mandatory.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
