Acute Bronchitis

Acute bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry air to your lungs. It causes a cough that often brings up mucus, and may also cause shortness of breath, wheezing, low fever, and chest tightness. Most cases get better within several days, but the cough can last for several weeks after the infection is gone.

Symptoms

• Cough that often brings up mucus
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Low fever
• Chest tightness

Causes

The same viruses that cause colds and the flu often cause acute bronchitis. These viruses spread through the air when people cough, or through physical contact (for example, on unwashed hands). Exposure to tobacco smoke, air pollution, dusts, vapors, and fumes can also cause acute bronchitis. Less often, bacteria can also cause acute bronchitis.

Diagnosis

To diagnose acute bronchitis, your health care provider will ask about your symptoms and listen to your breathing. You may also have other tests.

Treatment

Rest, fluids, and aspirin (for adults) or acetaminophen to treat fever.

Medications

• Aspirin (for adults)
• Acetaminophen
• Inhaled medicine to open airways (if wheezing)
• Antibiotics (if cause is bacterial)

Lifestyle

• Rest
• Fluids
• Using a humidifier or steam