Acute Bronchitis

At RWJBarnabas Health, our lung care specialists understand how uncomfortable and disruptive acute bronchitis can be to your daily life. This common respiratory condition, characterized by inflammation of the bronchial tubes in your lungs, can leave you feeling exhausted and struggling to breathe normally. While acute bronchitis often resolves on its own, proper care and management are crucial for a speedy recovery and to prevent complications.

Our team of experienced pulmonologists and respiratory specialists provides comprehensive care for patients with acute bronchitis. We offer accurate diagnosis, effective treatment plans, and guidance on symptom management to help you breathe easier and feel better faster. Don't let acute bronchitis slow you down — let us help you get back to your normal activities as soon as possible.

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What Is Acute Bronchitis?

Acute bronchitis is a temporary inflammation of the airways (bronchi) in the lungs. It typically develops following an upper respiratory infection and causes coughing, which may be accompanied by mucus production. Most cases of acute bronchitis resolve within a few weeks without complications.

While acute bronchitis typically resolves on its own in healthy individuals, it can lead to complications in some people, especially those with pre-existing conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). If you have a respiratory condition or severe symptoms, consult your healthcare provider.

Acute Bronchitis Causes

Acute bronchitis is usually caused by viral infections, such as:

• Common cold viruses
• Influenza (flu) viruses
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

Less commonly, it can be caused by:

• Bacterial infections
• Exposure to irritants like tobacco smoke, air pollution, or chemical fumes

Acute Bronchitis Symptoms

Common symptoms of acute bronchitis include:

• Persistent cough, which may produce clear, white, yellow, or green mucus
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Chest discomfort
• Mild fever and chills
• Sore throat

Acute Bronchitis Diagnosis

Our health care professionals employ a comprehensive approach to diagnose acute bronchitis. One or more of the following tests might be done:

• Physical examination. The process typically begins with a physical examination and a thorough review of your medical history and symptoms. During the examination, your doctor will listen carefully to your lungs using a stethoscope to detect any abnormal sounds.
• X-rays. In some cases, particularly if pneumonia is suspected, a chest X-ray may be ordered to get a clearer picture of your lung condition.
• Sputum test. A sample of coughed-up mucus is examined under a microscope to identify any infectious agents.

This multifaceted diagnostic approach allows our team to accurately assess your condition and determine the most effective treatment plan.

Acute Bronchitis Treatments

Most cases of acute bronchitis resolve on their own. Treatment focuses on symptom relief and may include:

• Rest and hydration
• Over-the-counter pain relievers and fever reducers
• Cough suppressants for a dry, hacking cough
• Humidifiers to ease breathing
• Bronchodilators (in some cases)

Antibiotics are typically not prescribed for acute bronchitis unless a bacterial infection is suspected.

Acute Bronchitis Prevention

To reduce your risk of acute bronchitis:

• Practice good hand hygiene
• Avoid close contact with people who have respiratory infections
• Don't smoke, and avoid secondhand smoke
• Get vaccinated against influenza and pneumococcal disease
• Wear a mask in polluted environments

Expert Care for Acute Bronchitis

If you're experiencing symptoms of acute bronchitis or have concerns about your respiratory health, don't hesitate to seek expert care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our respiratory specialists.

Your health is our priority at RWJBarnabas Health. Let our lung care specialists help you breathe easier and recover faster from acute bronchitis.

Request an Appointment