Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes. Acute bronchitis often follows a cold or an upper respiratory infection, and usually improves after a few days. Most bronchitis is caused by a virus and cannot be treated with antibiotics.
Chronic bronchitis, a constant irritation of the bronchial tubes, often caused by smoking, lasts for three months or more, and might be a sign of a more serious health problem.
Symptoms of Bronchitis
Symptoms of bronchitis include:
- Cough
- Production of clear, white, yellowish-gray or green mucus —it may be streaked with blood
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Slight fever and chills
- Chest discomfort
We can help determine if you or a loved one has bronchitis at Urgent Family Care in Knoxville.
Treatment for Bronchitis
Most bronchitis gets better by itself in two weeks. Use a humidifier to moisten the air and loosen the mucus. Avoid smoking, and wear a surgical mask if you are exposed to irritants in the air, such as paint fumes, or if you are going out into very cold weather.
Sometimes bronchitis leads to a bacterial infection or pneumonia. See a doctor if:
- The cough lasts more than three weeks.
- The cough keeps you from sleeping.
- Your fever is higher than 100.4 F (38 C).
- You cough up discolored mucus or blood.
- You are wheezing or short of breath.
Medical attention is available now at Urgent Family Care in Knoxvile.