Bronchitis in teenagers

Overview

Bronchitis is a chest infection that causes swelling and irritation in the airways (the tubes that carry air to your lungs). This makes you cough and brings up thick mucus (phlegm).

Yes, especially during colder months. Many teenagers get bronchitis after a cold or the flu.

Teenagers can get bronchitis, especially if they have a weakened immune system, smoke, or are around secondhand smoke. It is more common in people with asthma or allergies.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A cough that brings up clear, yellow, or green mucus
• Soreness or tightness in the chest
• Feeling tired or achy
• Mild fever (temperature under 38.5°C / 101°F)
• Shortness of breath after activity

Symptoms in children

• Fussiness, trouble feeding (if young, but for teens this is less relevant)
• Rapid or noisy breathing
• Cough that may last for weeks

Symptoms in older adults

• Bronchitis in older adults is not the focus here; this article is for teenagers.

Causes

Main causes

• Viral infections: the same viruses that cause colds, the flu, or COVID-19
• Bacterial infections: less common, but can happen after a viral infection

Risk factors

• Smoking or being around secondhand smoke
• Having asthma, allergies, or a weakened immune system
• Living in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces
• Not getting enough rest or hydration when you have a cold

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have trouble breathing or chest pain
• If you cough up blood
• If you feel very unwell, have a high fever, or are confused

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have a cough that lasts more than 3 weeks
• If you keep getting bronchitis
• If you have asthma and your symptoms are getting worse

Diagnosis

A doctor will listen to your symptoms and examine you. They will check your temperature, listen to your chest with a stethoscope, and ask about your cough and any other signs.

Tests that may be done

• A pulse oximeter to measure oxygen levels in your blood (a small clip on your finger)
• Chest X-ray: only if the doctor suspects pneumonia or another condition
• Mucus sample: rarely needed, if a bacterial infection is suspected

What to expect at your appointment

The diagnosis is usually made based on your history and a physical exam. You will not need any special tests for a typical case. The doctor will explain whether it is likely viral bronchitis and give advice on self-care.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and letting your body fight the infection. Most cases are viral, so antibiotics do not help. The illness usually clears up on its own within 1 to 3 weeks.

Self-care at home

• Get plenty of rest and sleep
• Drink lots of fluids (water, warm tea with honey, soup)
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers to lower fever and ease body aches (follow the package instructions)
• Breathe in steam from a bowl of hot water, or use a humidifier, to help loosen mucus
• Avoid smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke

Medical treatments

If a doctor suspects a bacterial infection, they may prescribe an antibiotic. This is not common. For a cough that keeps you up at night, a cough suppressant might be suggested, but it is not usually recommended because coughing helps clear the mucus. Always follow your doctor's advice on any medicine.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is never needed for acute bronchitis in teenagers.

Living with this condition

While you are sick, take it easy. Stay home from school until your fever is gone for 24 hours without medicine and you feel well enough to concentrate. Cover your mouth when you cough and wash your hands often to avoid spreading the infection.

Lifestyle tips

• Do not smoke or vape – this makes bronchitis worse and can cause it to come back
• If you have asthma, make sure you use your preventer inhaler as prescribed
• Keep your immune system strong by eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables. While you are sick, soft, easy-to-swallow foods like soup, yogurt, and toast can help. Avoid heavy exercise until your energy returns, but gentle movement like walking is fine.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Being sick can make you feel frustrated or down, especially if the cough lasts for weeks. It is normal to feel a bit low. Talk to your parents, a friend, or a school counselor if you are worried. Remember that this illness will pass.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent bronchitis, but you can lower your chances by staying healthy and avoiding germs.

Vaccines

Vaccines against the flu and COVID-19 can help prevent infections that sometimes lead to bronchitis. The pneumococcal vaccine is usually not needed for teens unless they have a chronic condition. Ask your doctor what vaccines are right for you.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for bronchitis. If you have repeat infections, a doctor might check for asthma or other underlying conditions.

Complications

If left untreated

• Pneumonia – an infection in the air sacs of the lungs
• Chronic bronchitis – a long-term cough that comes back, but this is rare in teens
• Worsening of asthma symptoms

Long-term outlook

The outlook is excellent. Most teenagers recover fully from bronchitis without any problems. Even if the cough lingers for a few weeks, it will go away. Taking care of yourself and following simple advice can help you heal faster.

Find support

International organisations

• NHS website (UK) ↗

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