Summary about Disease
Acute bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry air to your lungs. This inflammation causes coughing, often with mucus, and can be accompanied by other cold-like symptoms. It is usually caused by a viral infection, similar to those that cause the common cold or the flu. While uncomfortable, acute bronchitis typically resolves on its own within a few weeks.
Symptoms
Cough (may be dry or produce mucus - clear, white, yellow, or green)
Sore throat
Fatigue
Runny nose
Mild headache
Body aches
Wheezing
Shortness of breath
Low-grade fever
Chest discomfort
Causes
Viral infections: Most commonly caused by viruses that also cause colds and the flu, such as rhinovirus, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Bacterial infections: Less common than viral causes, but sometimes bacteria like Mycoplasma pneumoniae or *Bordetella pertussis* (whooping cough) can be responsible.
Irritants: Exposure to irritants like smoke, dust, air pollution, chemical fumes, and allergens can also trigger acute bronchitis.
Medicine Used
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help reduce fever and body aches.
Cough suppressants: May be used to control coughing, but should be used with caution as coughing helps clear mucus from the airways. (e.g., Dextromethorphan, Guaifenesin)
Expectorants: These medications help to loosen mucus, making it easier to cough up. (e.g., Guaifenesin)
Bronchodilators: In some cases, bronchodilators (inhalers) may be prescribed to open up the airways, especially if wheezing is present. (e.g., Albuterol)
Antibiotics: Generally not effective for viral bronchitis. May be prescribed if a bacterial infection is suspected or confirmed.
Is Communicable
Yes, acute bronchitis caused by viral or bacterial infections is communicable. The infection can spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Precautions
Wash hands frequently: Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing or sneezing.
Cover your mouth and nose: When coughing or sneezing, use a tissue or cough/sneeze into your elbow.
Avoid close contact: Limit close contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable to infection (e.g., infants, elderly, people with weakened immune systems).
Stay home: If you are sick, stay home from work or school to prevent spreading the infection.
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke: Smoke can irritate the airways and worsen symptoms.
Use hand sanitizer: When soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Clean surfaces: Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
How long does an outbreak last?
Acute bronchitis typically lasts for 1 to 3 weeks. The cough may persist for several weeks, even after other symptoms have improved. In some cases, the cough can last for up to 4 weeks.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical exam: A doctor will listen to your lungs with a stethoscope and ask about your symptoms.
Medical history: The doctor will ask about your medical history and any potential exposures to irritants or infections.
Chest X-ray: Usually not needed, but may be performed if the doctor suspects pneumonia or another lung condition.
Sputum test: May be done to check for bacterial infection if the doctor suspects it.
Pulmonary function tests: Rarely needed, but may be used to assess lung function if wheezing or shortness of breath is present.
Timeline of Symptoms
Days 1-3: Symptoms may start like a common cold, with a runny nose, sore throat, and fatigue.
Days 3-7: Cough develops, which may be dry at first but can become productive with mucus. Other symptoms may worsen, including headache, body aches, and low-grade fever.
Week 2: Most symptoms start to improve, but the cough may persist.
Weeks 3-4: The cough gradually subsides. In some cases, a cough may linger for up to 4 weeks.
Important Considerations
Differentiate from Pneumonia: It's important to distinguish acute bronchitis from pneumonia, which is a more serious lung infection. See a doctor if you have a high fever, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or are coughing up blood.
Chronic Bronchitis: Acute bronchitis is different from chronic bronchitis, which is a long-term condition that causes inflammation and mucus production in the airways.
Secondary Infections: While rare, acute bronchitis can sometimes lead to secondary bacterial infections, requiring antibiotics.
Underlying Conditions: If you have underlying lung conditions like asthma or COPD, acute bronchitis can exacerbate your symptoms.
Hydration: Staying hydrated is essential to thin mucus secretions and make it easier to cough them up. Drink plenty of water, juice, or herbal tea.