Bronchitis patient overview

Overview

Bronchitis is an inflammation (swelling) of the tubes that carry air to and from your lungs, called the bronchial tubes. This swelling makes it harder to breathe and can cause a cough that brings up mucus (phlegm).

Yes, bronchitis is very common. Most people will have at least one episode of acute bronchitis during their lifetime.

Anyone can get acute bronchitis, but it is more common in young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Chronic bronchitis is most common in people who smoke or have long-term exposure to lung irritants.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A cough that may bring up clear, yellow, green, or white mucus
• Shortness of breath or wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe)
• Chest tightness or discomfort
• Fatigue (feeling very tired)
• Mild fever and chills
• Sore throat and runny nose

Symptoms in children

• A barking cough that can sound like croup
• Difficulty feeding or drinking due to coughing
• Irritability or fussiness
• Faster breathing than usual
• Tugging at the ears (ear pain is common with infections)

Symptoms in older adults

• A worsening of existing conditions like COPD or heart failure
• Confusion or drowsiness
• Loss of appetite
• Weakness and dizziness

Causes

Main causes

• Respiratory viruses, such as the ones that cause colds and the flu (most common cause)
• Bacteria (less common)
• Irritants like tobacco smoke, air pollution, or dust

Risk factors

• Smoking or being around second-hand smoke
• Having a weakened immune system (e.g., from diabetes, chemotherapy, or HIV)
• Living or working in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces
• Exposure to harsh chemicals or dust at work
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can irritate the airways

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have any of the emergency symptoms listed above
• If you have a cough that brings up blood
• If you have a high fever that doesn't respond to simple pain relievers

Book a routine appointment if:

• If your cough lasts longer than three weeks
• If you have repeated episodes of bronchitis
• If your symptoms are not improving after a week

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and listen to your lungs with a stethoscope. They may also ask if you smoke or have any medical conditions.

Tests that may be done

• A chest X-ray to rule out pneumonia or other lung problems
• A mucus culture to check for bacteria if needed
• Pulse oximetry (a small clip on your finger) to measure oxygen levels in your blood

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor may prescribe medication to help with symptoms, but in most cases, they will advise rest, plenty of fluids, and using a humidifier. They will tell you when to come back if your symptoms do not improve.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms while your body fights off the infection. Most cases of acute bronchitis do not need antibiotics because they are caused by viruses.

Self-care at home

• Get plenty of rest
• Drink lots of fluids (water, herbal tea, warm soup) to thin mucus
• Use a humidifier or breathe in steam from a bowl of hot water to soothe the airways
• Avoid smoking and second-hand smoke
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever and body aches (follow the label instructions)

Medical treatments

Your doctor may recommend cough medicine to help you sleep or an inhaler to open up your airways if you have wheezing. Antibiotics are only given if a bacterial infection is suspected. Never take antibiotics without a prescription.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used for bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis may sometimes require other procedures for severe lung damage, but this is rare.

Living with this condition

Most people feel better within a week, but a cough can linger for up to three weeks. During this time, take it easy and avoid activities that make you cough more.

Lifestyle tips

• Quit smoking if you smoke – this is the most important step for lung health
• Avoid air pollution and dust
• Wash your hands often to prevent spreading the virus
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports your immune system. Gentle exercise, like walking, is fine once your fever is gone – but listen to your body and don't push yourself.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A long cough can be frustrating and disrupt sleep, which may lead to anxiety or low mood. It's normal to feel this way. Talk to your doctor if you're feeling overwhelmed.

Prevention

Not all cases can be prevented, but you can lower your risk by avoiding infections and lung irritants.

Vaccines

The flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine can help prevent some causes of bronchitis. Ask your doctor about these vaccines.

Screening programmes

No routine screening tests for bronchitis. If you have a chronic cough, your doctor may recommend a lung function test.

Complications

If left untreated

• Pneumonia (infection in the air sacs of the lungs)
• Worsening of chronic lung conditions like asthma or COPD
• Respiratory failure (in severe cases, when the lungs don't get enough oxygen to the body)

Long-term outlook

For most people, acute bronchitis clears up on its own without any lasting problems. Chronic bronchitis is a long-term condition that can be managed with the right care, and quitting smoking greatly improves the outlook. With proper treatment, most people can maintain a good quality of life.

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