Bronchitis

What is bronchitis?

Bronchitis is a condition where the lining of your bronchial tubes, the airways to your lungs, swell and become inflamed. 

Bronchitis causes coughing and other symptoms. You may find it hard to breathe with bronchitis. Treatment generally concentrates on opening your airways and reducing inflammation.

What are the symptoms of bronchitis?

The most common sign of bronchitis is a cough, often with mucus. Other symptoms include:

• Tiredness
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Mild chest pain or soreness
• Low-grade fever or chills

You may also have cold-like symptoms, such as body aches or a minor headache.

What are the types of bronchitis?

Bronchitis comes in two kinds, acute and chronic. Acute is a short-term form of bronchitis, while chronic bronchitis returns over time.

Acute bronchitis

Acute bronchitis is the most common type. It's usually caused by a virus and is often called a chest cold. Acute bronchitis usually goes away after a week or two.

Chronic bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is less common. It creates a constant state of inflammation in your airways and results in a lingering cough. This form of bronchitis usually returns more than two years in a row. 

Why am I getting chronic bronchitis?

Particular factors increase your risk of chronic bronchitis, such as:

• Being exposed to secondhand smoke or fumes 
• A history of lung disease in your family
• A history of childhood respiratory illness

If you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), that also raises your risk of getting chronic bronchitis.

How is bronchitis diagnosed?

Your provider at West Sacramento Urgent Care takes a thorough medical history. They perform a physical exam and listen to your lungs for signs of infection. 

You may need a chest X-ray to determine whether pneumonia or another respiratory condition is causing your cough. X-rays are available onsite at West Sacramento Urgent Care for your convenience.

How is bronchitis treated?

Your provider recommends the appropriate treatment plan for your form of bronchitis. Your treatments may include:  

• Cough medicine
• Inhaled medications to reduce inflammation
• Antibiotics, in cases where you have a bacterial infection

The goal of your therapy is to open your airways, improve your breathing, and set you on the path to recovery. For prompt diagnosis, including onsite X-rays, call West Sacramento Urgent Care today or book a consultation online.