Pulmonary function tests. These are tests that help to measure the ability of the lungs to move air in and out of the lungs. The tests are usually done with special machines that you breathe into.
How is acute bronchitis treated? Treatment is aimed at treating the symptoms, and may include: Avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke Cough medicine Humidifying the air Increased fluid intake Pain relievers and fever reducers, such as acetaminophen Tylenol Quitting smoking Avoid antihistamines because they dry up the secretions and can make the cough worse.
What are the complications of acute bronchitis? Can bronchitis be prevented? Anyone can get pneumococcal disease. However, children younger than age 2, adults ages 65 and older, people with certain medical conditions, and smokers are at the highest risk. When should I call my health care provider? Key points Bronchitis is inflammation of the breathing tubes.
There are several different types of bronchitis. The two most common are acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by the same viruses that cause colds and the flu.
It may also be caused by a bacterial infection, or by physical or chemical agents that are breathed into the lungs. The most common symptoms for acute bronchitis include cough, chest soreness, runny nose, feeling tired and achy, headache, chills, slight fever, and sore throat. Blood tests, breathing tests, and imaging tests may also be used.
If it progresses to pneumonia, then antibiotics may be necessary. Treatment is aimed at managing the symptoms. Next steps Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider: Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen. Before your visit, write down questions you want answered. If you have bronchitis and you're worried about coronavirus, you can get advice about coronavirus and bronchitis from the British Lung Foundation.
The main symptom of acute bronchitis is a hacking cough, which may bring up clear, yellow-grey or greenish mucus phlegm.
Other symptoms are similar to those of the common cold or sinusitis , and may include:. If you have acute bronchitis, your cough may last for several weeks after other symptoms have gone. Some people may have shortness of breath or wheezing as a result of inflamed airways. If you have a high temperature, a new, continuous cough or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste, it could be COVID Most cases of acute bronchitis can be easily treated at home with rest, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs NSAIDs and plenty of fluids.
A GP may need to rule out other lung infections, such as pneumonia, which has symptoms similar to those of bronchitis. If they think you may have pneumonia, you'll probably need a chest X-ray and a sample of mucus may be taken for testing.
If a GP thinks you might have an underlying condition, they may also suggest that you have a lung function test. You'll be asked to take a deep breath and blow into a device called a spirometer , which measures the volume of air in your lungs. The virus is contained in the millions of tiny droplets that come out of the nose and mouth when someone coughs or sneezes. These droplets typically spread about 1m. They hang suspended in the air for a while, then land on surfaces, where the virus can survive for up to 24 hours.
Our team is here to answer any questions you may have. DispatchHealth relies only on authoritative sources, including medical associations, research institutions, and peer-reviewed medical studies. Request a Visit. Account Sign In or Create Account. How Long Does Bronchitis Last? See if we service your area Zip Code this. Request a Visit Learn More. What causes chronic bronchitis? Who is at risk for chronic bronchitis? The risk factors for chronic bronchitis include Smoking. This the main risk factor.
Long-term exposure to other lung irritants , such as secondhand smoke, air pollution, and chemical fumes and dusts from the environment or workplace. Most people who have chronic bronchitis are at least 40 years old when their symptoms begin. This includes alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, which is a genetic condition. Also, smokers who get chronic bronchitis are more likely to get it if they have a family history of COPD.
What are the symptoms of chronic bronchitis? They can include Frequent coughing or a cough that produces a lot mucus Wheezing A whistling or squeaky sound when you breathe Shortness of breath, especially with physical activity Tightness in your chest Some people with chronic bronchitis get frequent respiratory infections such as colds and the flu.
How is chronic bronchitis diagnosed? Your health care provider may use many tools to make a diagnosis: A medical history, which includes asking about your symptoms A family history Various tests, such as lung function tests , a chest x-ray or CT scan , and blood tests What are the treatments for chronic bronchitis? Treatments include Lifestyle changes , such as Quitting smoking if you are a smoker. This is the most important step you can take to treat chronic bronchitis.
Avoiding secondhand smoke and places where you might breathe in other lung irritants Ask your health care provider for an eating plan that will meet your nutritional needs. Also ask about how much physical activity you can do.
Physical activity can strengthen the muscles that help you breathe and improve your overall wellness. Medicines , such as Bronchodilators, which relax the muscles around your airways.
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