RespiratoryICD-10: J20.9About 5% of adults report an episode of acute bronchitis annually

Bronchitis

Also known as: Acute Bronchitis, Chest Cold, Bronchial Inflammation, Chest infection, Chronic Bronchitis

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes (bronchi) that carry air to and from the lungs. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by viral infections and resolves within 1-3 weeks, while chronic bronchitis is a form of COPD characterized by a productive cough lasting at least three months in two consecutive years. Most cases of acute bronchitis do not require antibiotics.

At a Glance

Common symptoms
Persistent cough that may produce mucus (clear, white, yellow, or green), Chest discomfort or tightness, Fatigue
Main treatments
Rest and plenty of fluids, Over-the-counter cough suppressants and expectorants, NSAIDs or acetaminophen for fever and body aches
Category
Respiratory · About 5% of adults report an episode of acute bronchitis annually
See a doctor if
Cough lasts more than three weeks

Symptoms

Persistent cough that may produce mucus (clear, white, yellow, or green)
Chest discomfort or tightness
Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Low-grade fever and chills
Body aches
Sore throat
Wheezing

Causes

  • Viral infections (same viruses that cause colds and flu)
  • Bacterial infections (less common)
  • Long-term exposure to cigarette smoke (chronic bronchitis)
  • Air pollution, dust, and chemical fumes

Risk Factors

  • Smoking or secondhand smoke exposure
  • Weakened immune system
  • Exposure to occupational irritants
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • Older age or very young age

Diagnosis

  • Physical examination and lung auscultation
  • Chest X-ray to rule out pneumonia
  • Sputum culture if bacterial infection is suspected
  • Pulmonary function tests for suspected chronic bronchitis

Treatment

  • Rest and plenty of fluids
  • Over-the-counter cough suppressants and expectorants
  • NSAIDs or acetaminophen for fever and body aches
  • Inhaled bronchodilators if wheezing is present
  • Antibiotics only if a bacterial infection is confirmed
  • Smoking cessation for chronic bronchitis

Prevention

  • Get annual flu vaccine and stay current on pneumonia vaccine
  • Wash hands frequently during cold and flu season
  • Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
  • Wear a mask in polluted or dusty environments

When to See a Doctor

  • Cough lasts more than three weeks
  • You cough up blood or have a high fever (above 100.4°F / 38°C)
  • Shortness of breath or wheezing interferes with daily activities
  • You have repeated episodes of bronchitis

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Asthma

Respiratory

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Respiratory

Common Cold

Infectious

Allergic Rhinitis

Respiratory

Pneumonia

Respiratory

Influenza

Infectious

Related from the Supplement Library

NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)

Strong

Amino Acid · Glutathione precursor and antioxidant support

Vitamin C

Strong

Vitamin · Immune support and white blood cell function

Zinc

Strong

Mineral · Immune system support and T-cell function

Elderberry

Moderate

Herb · Supports immune response

Vitamin D

Strong

Vitamin · Bone health and calcium absorption

These supplements have been studied in relation to Bronchitis. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications.

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