Taking Care of Acute Bronchitis

Acute bronchitis is an inflammation lining of the bronchial tubes, the hollow air passages that connect the lungs to the windpipe. It is most often caused by infection. When these tubes become infected, they swell and mucus forms inside them. This makes it hard to breathe, and the person may cough up mucus and wheeze

The infection is almost always called by viruses, according to the Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). Bacteria can also cause acute bronchitis, but they are a much less common cause than previously thought.

Symptoms

The main symptom of acute bronchitis is a cough. These are other symptoms:

• Shortness of breath that may worsen with exercise or mild activity

• Wheezing

• Sore throat

• Nasal congestion or discomfort

• Chest tightness

• Fatigue

• Fever

Most cases of acute bronchitis don’t require medical treatment. Self-care includes rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and not smoking.

If you have a fever, take aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen. Don't give aspirin to children younger than 19.         

When to call the doctor

Bronchitis caused by a bacterial infection may need an antibiotic.

According to the AAFP, these are reasons to see your health care provider:

• You are coughing up blood.

• You have a high fever or chills.

• You have thick, greenish mucus, especially if it has a bad smell.

• You feel short of breath or have chest pain.

• You have heart or lung disease.

• You have a bothersome cough for more than two weeks.