What is Bronchitis?
Bronchitis refers to an infection of the large airways in the lungs, known as the bronchi. This condition leads to irritation, inflammation, and swelling of these air passages. A common symptom of bronchitis is a persistent cough that brings up mucus (phlegm). Bronchitis can be classified into two types: acute and chronic.
Types of Bronchitis
Acute Bronchitis usually resolves within 7 to 10 days, although a cough can last for weeks. It’s a prevalent condition, often caused by viruses, and is typically what people refer to when mentioning bronchitis. Acute bronchitis accounts for more than 90% of cases.1 On the other hand, Chronic Bronchitis is defined by persistent coughing with mucus most days for at least three months per year, over two consecutive years.2 This ongoing condition may indicate Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a severe and long-term lung disease.
Symptoms of Bronchitis
Common symptoms include:
- Coughing, either dry or with mucus
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain due to frequent coughing
- Low-grade fever
- Runny or blocked nose
- Headaches
- Body aches
- Fatigue3
What Causes Bronchitis?
Bronchitis is mostly caused by viruses. While the condition itself isn’t contagious, the viruses that lead to it can spread to others. Respiratory viruses cause over 90% of acute bronchitis cases.4 You may be contagious for a few days to a week if the cause is viral.5 However, bronchitis can also be triggered by bacteria, smoking, air pollution, dust, chemicals, or other irritants that affect the bronchi. People who are at a higher risk include those who:
- Smoke or live with smokers
- Have lung conditions such as asthma
- Have a weakened immune system
- Work in environments with irritants
- Suffer from gastric reflux
- Have not been vaccinated against influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, or whooping cough.6
Is Bronchitis Dangerous?
While a single bout of bronchitis may not be too serious, recurrent cases could signal COPD, which raises the risk of heart disease, lung cancer, and other health issues.7 In some cases, bronchitis can progress to pneumonia, a more serious condition where the air sacs in the lungs fill with pus and fluid, making it harder to breathe. Pneumonia is often treated with antibiotics, but in severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary. Risk factors for pneumonia include being older, a smoker, or having pre-existing health conditions (such as heart, liver, or kidney diseases) or a weakened immune system.2
Diagnosing Bronchitis
To diagnose acute bronchitis, your doctor will assess your symptoms and perform a physical exam, which often involves listening to your lungs with a stethoscope. They may also conduct a PCR test via a nose or throat swab to identify the specific virus or bacteria causing the infection. If chronic bronchitis is suspected, further tests may include:
- Spirometry (a test to check lung function)
- Chest X-ray or CT scan
- Arterial blood gas analysis to assess how well your lungs are oxygenating your blood.8
Treatment of Bronchitis
Acute Bronchitis:
Treatment typically includes:
- Rest
- Hydration
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen to ease discomfort
- Cough medicine (after consulting your pharmacist, as some formulations may not be suitable)
- A humidifier to help ease coughing and loosen mucus
- Honey (for individuals over 12 months) mixed with warm water can soothe your cough
Antibiotics are not effective for viral infections, but may be prescribed if the bronchitis is bacterial.
Chronic Bronchitis:
While chronic bronchitis has no cure, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing flare-ups:
- Medications to open the airways and reduce inflammation
- Pulmonary rehabilitation programs to improve breathing function
- The most crucial step is to quit smoking. Other helpful actions include:
1. Regular exercise 2. Healthy diet 3. Staying up-to-date with vaccinations, especially against influenza, COVID-19, and pneumococcal disease3
Preventing Bronchitis
To lower the risk of contracting bronchitis, follow good hygiene practices, such as:
- Stay home when sick
- Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing
- Wash your hands regularly
- Wear a mask when unwell
Additionally, quitting smoking and avoiding irritants can reduce the risk of bronchitis. Your pharmacist can assist you in quitting smoking.
When to See Your Doctor
You should consult your doctor if:
- Your symptoms worsen or don’t improve
- You have severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or a high fever
- Your cough persists for more than two to three weeks
- You feel very unwell or suspect you have bronchitis3