OVERVIEW

Acute bronchitis is a short-term inflammation of the bronchi, the air passages that lead to your lungs. It’s usually caused by a viral infection, such as a cold or the flu. Acute bronchitis usually starts with a runny nose, sore throat, and general malaise. These symptoms are followed by coughing that may bring up mucus. The cough usually lasts for several weeks.

Acute bronchitis is usually not a serious illness, and most people recover without treatment. However, some people may develop complications, such as pneumonia. In rare cases, acute bronchitis can be fatal.

SYMPTOMS

The signs and symptoms of acute bronchitis may include the following:

• Cough
• Sore throat
• Chest congestion
• Fatigue
• Production of mucus (sputum)
• Headaches
• Shortness of breath
• Persistent wheezing
• Chest discomfort
• Slight fever and chills

CAUSES

Acute bronchitis is usually caused by viruses, typically the same viruses that cause colds and flu (influenza). Antibiotics don’t kill viruses, so this type of medication isn’t useful in most cases of bronchitis.

The most common cause of chronic bronchitis is cigarette smoking. Air pollution and dust or toxic gases in the environment or workplace also can contribute to the condition.

TREATMENT

Available treatments we offer:

• Antibiotics (Zpak, Cefuroxime, Augmentin, Levofloxacin)
• Albuterol
• Oral and Inhaled steroid (Prednisone, Symbicort, Qvar)
• Cough suppressant (Tessalon, Histex, Bromfed)