Chronic bronchitis lasts a long time. It is more common among smokers. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a viral infection. This is most often the same viruses that cause colds and the flu. It may also be caused by a bacterial infection, or by physical or chemical agents that are breathed in.
These may include dusts, allergens, and strong fumes, including those from chemical cleaning compounds or tobacco smoke. Acute bronchitis may come after a common cold or other viral infections in the upper respiratory tract. It may also occur in people with chronic sinusitis, allergies, or those with enlarged tonsils and adenoids. It can be serious in people with lung or heart diseases. Pneumonia is a complication that can follow bronchitis.
The following are the most common symptoms of acute bronchitis. However, each person may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:.
The symptoms of acute bronchitis may look like other conditions or medical problems. Talk with a healthcare provider for a diagnosis. Healthcare providers can often diagnose acute bronchitis by taking a medical history and doing physical exam.
Tests may be done to rule out other diseases, such as pneumonia or asthma. Any of these tests may be used to help confirm a diagnosis:. Acute bronchitis is usually mild and does not cause complications. The symptoms often resolve on their own and lung function goes back to normal. In most cases, antibiotics are not needed to treat acute bronchitis.
Antibiotics are not effective against viruses. If it has progressed to pneumonia, then antibiotics may be necessary. Acute bronchitis can worsen and progress to chronic bronchitis or pneumonia.
If this happens, a different treatment may be necessary. However, there are shots you can get to prevent its complications, such as pneumonia. Check with your healthcare provider about getting the flu and pneumococcal shots.
Getting a flu shot every year can help prevent both the flu and pneumonia. Simply put, we bring personalized, same-day medical care to your doorstep!
In fact, a visit from DispatchHealth costs about the same as a trip to an urgent care clinic. Our teams are committed to delivering the highest quality of medical care and have ample experience assisting patients with chronic bronchitis and other forms of COPD. Receive the bronchitis treatment you need to breathe easier without ever leaving home. To request a visit from Dispatch Health, just give us a call, use our app, or go on our website.
Our team is here to answer any questions you may have. DispatchHealth relies only on authoritative sources, including medical associations, research institutions, and peer-reviewed medical studies. Request a Visit. Account Sign In or Create Account. How Long Does Bronchitis Last? This information provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone. Talk to your family doctor to find out if this information applies to you and to get more information on this subject. Chronic bronchitis is bronchitis that….
Over-the-counter cough suppressants can be used to treat some coughs that are interfering with your sleep or activities, but…. Visit The Symptom Checker. Food Poisoning. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction. Bursitis of the Hip. Abnormal Uterine Bleeding. High Blood Pressure. Home Diseases and Conditions Acute Bronchitis. Table of Contents. Chronic Bronchitis. Chronic Cough. What is acute bronchitis?
Read More by Dr. Shilpa Mehta. Symptoms of acute bronchitis The symptoms of acute bronchitis can include: Chest congestion or tightness Cough that brings up clear, yellow, or green mucus Shortness of breath Wheezing Sore throat Fever Chills Body aches Your cough can last for several weeks or more. What causes acute bronchitis? Lesser-known causes of acute bronchitis are: Bacteria or fungal infections. Exposure to irritants, such as smoke, dust, or fumes. You are at greater risk if your bronchial tubes already have damage.
GERD gastroesophageal reflux disease , which causes heartburn. You can get acute bronchitis when stomach acid gets into the bronchial tubes. How is acute bronchitis diagnosed? Can acute bronchitis be prevented or avoided? Other steps you can take to avoid acute bronchitis include: Wear a mask over your nose and mouth when using lung irritants. These could include paint, paint remover, or varnish. Get a flu shot every year.
Ask your doctor if you should get a pneumonia shot, especially if you are over age Acute bronchitis treatment Most cases of acute bronchitis are caused by a virus. Home treatment focuses on easing the symptoms: Drink fluids but avoid caffeine and alcohol.
Get plenty of rest. Take over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce inflammation, ease pain, and lower your fever. These could include acetaminophen 1 brand name: Tylenol or ibuprofen 1 brand name: Advil. Never give aspirin to a child. It has been linked to Reye syndrome, which can affect the liver and brain.
0コメント