Bronchitis

About Bronchitis

Acute bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchial tubes, usually following a viral upper respiratory infection. The primary symptom is a persistent cough lasting 2 to 3 weeks, often with mucus production. Other symptoms include chest discomfort, wheezing, mild fever, and fatigue. The most common causes are the same viruses that cause colds and flu. Bacterial bronchitis is less common. Acute bronchitis is usually self limiting and generally does not need antibiotics, though they are frequently overprescribed. Symptom relief includes rest, hydration, cough suppressants, and inhaled bronchodilators for wheezing. Chronic bronchitis, a form of COPD, is different and is caused by long term lung irritation, primarily from smoking. Chronic bronchitis is defined as a productive cough lasting at least 3 months per year for 2 consecutive years. Smoking cessation is the most important intervention for chronic bronchitis.