Bronchitis is a common lung condition that causes inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry air in and out of your lungs. It can affect people of all ages and range from mild to severe.
At Banner Health, we help you recognize bronchitis symptoms early and take steps to protect your breathing health.
Bronchitis occurs when the bronchial tubes become inflamed and swollen. This inflammation narrows the airways and increases mucus production, leading to coughing and breathing discomfort.
There are two main types:
Acute bronchitis is most often caused by viruses. It commonly develops after:
Because it is usually viral, antibiotics are rarely needed.
Chronic bronchitis is defined as a productive cough that lasts at least three months per year for two consecutive years.
It is most commonly caused by long-term exposure to lung irritants, including:
People with asthma, cystic fibrosis, COPD or GERD may also be at higher risk.
Common symptoms include:
Acute bronchitis usually improves within two to three weeks, although a cough may linger for several weeks.
Contact a health care provider if you have:
Young children, older adults and people with chronic lung conditions are at higher risk for complications.
Bronchitis itself is not contagious. However, the viruses that cause acute bronchitis can spread through:
Chronic bronchitis is not contagious because it is caused by long-term irritation, not infection.
If you have acute bronchitis, wash your hands frequently, cover your coughs and stay home while sick to reduce the spread of infection.
Your provider will review your symptoms and listen to your lungs for wheezing or crackling sounds.
They may order tests such as:
Treatment depends on whether the condition is acute or chronic.
Most cases improve on their own. To ease symptoms:
Do not give over-the-counter cough or cold medicine to children under 4 years old. Ask your child’s provider what is safe.
A cough may last three to six weeks even after the infection improves.
The goal is to reduce symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
Treatment may include:
Chronic bronchitis is one type of COPD. Learn more about COPD and long-term lung care.
Antibiotics do not treat viral infections. Since most cases of acute bronchitis are viral, antibiotics are usually not recommended.
Unnecessary antibiotics can lead to side effects and antibiotic resistance.
If bacterial infection is suspected, your provider will determine whether antibiotics are appropriate.
If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical care.
You can lower your risk by:
Bronchitis can be uncomfortable, but early care and healthy habits make a difference. If you have ongoing cough, breathing problems or concerns about bronchitis, schedule an appointment with a Banner Health provider.
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