Bronchitis

What is Bronchitis?

Bronchitis is a condition that inflames the bronchial tubes, which carry air to your lungs. This inflammation can cause a persistent cough, mucus production, and trouble breathing.

Bronchitis can affect people of all ages but is more common in smokers and those with weakened immune systems. In this guide, you'll learn about its causes, symptoms, treatments, and when to seek medical care.

Causes:
What Causes Bronchitis?

• Viral infections: The same viruses that cause colds or the flu can lead to acute bronchitis.
• Smoking: The leading cause of chronic bronchitis, as it damages the airways over time.
• Air pollutants: Prolonged exposure to dust, fumes, or other irritants.
  ​

Risk Factors:

Who Is Most at Risk for Developing Bronchitis?

• Smokers or those exposed to secondhand smoke.
• People with weakened immune systems.
• Individuals with repeated respiratory infections.

Signs and Symptoms of Bronchitis:

• Persistent cough, often producing mucus (clear, yellow, or green).
• Wheezing or shortness of breath.
• Chest discomfort or tightness.
• Low-grade fever and fatigue.
  
  

If untreated, symptoms may worsen, leading to chronic respiratory problems or pneumonia.

How Is Bronchitis Diagnosed?

At Riverside, our team uses advanced tools to diagnose bronchitis accurately:

• Physical exam: Listening to your breathing with a stethoscope.
• Chest X-ray: To rule out pneumonia or other conditions.
• Spirometry: Measures lung function to detect chronic bronchitis or other respiratory disorders.

What Are the Treatment Options for Bronchitis?

• For acute bronchitis: Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms.
• For chronic bronchitis:
  • Bronchodilators to open airways.
  • Inhaled steroids to reduce inflammation.
  • Pulmonary rehabilitation programs for long-term management.

Prevention Tips to Avoid Bronchitis:

• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke.
• Wash your hands frequently to reduce infection risk.
• Use a mask when exposed to airborne irritants.
  
  

Can Vaping Cause Bronchitis?

Vaping involves inhaling aerosolized substances, often containing nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals. While vaping is sometimes marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, it can still irritate the respiratory system and potentially lead to bronchitis.

How Vaping Affects the Airways:

• The heated chemicals in vape aerosols can inflame and irritate the bronchial tubes, similar to traditional smoking.
• Prolonged vaping may contribute to chronic bronchitis or exacerbate existing respiratory conditions.
  
  

What You Can Do:

• Avoid vaping or limit exposure to vape aerosols.
• Seek medical advice if you experience persistent coughing or difficulty breathing after vaping.

Signs You Should See a Health Care Provider:

• Symptoms last more than three weeks.
• High fever or coughing up blood.
• Shortness of breath or wheezing that worsens.
  
  

Don’t wait for symptoms to escalate. Early intervention can make a big difference.

At Riverside Health, we're dedicated to compassionate, collaborative care. We provide a wide range of services, from childbirth to end-of-life care, delivering over 2 million services each year. Our integrated network allows us to support you seamlessly through health, illness, recovery, and wellness. With top clinicians and advanced technology, we’re here for you at convenient locations close to home and work. Visit riversideonline.com.

If you’re wondering where the best place is to get care, please see our guide below:

If your problem is life- or limb-threatening, call 911 or go to the emergency room.

Primary Care – Schedule through MyChart or call your provider’s office who you go to for most health care needs.

Virtual Clinic – Schedule through MyChart or click Here to learn more about Primary Care On Demand.

MD Express Urgent Care – Click Here to find a location near you for after-hours care or when your primary care provider is not available. Open 9am-9pm, Mon-Sun.

If you’re not sure, call Riverside Nurse 24/7 at 1-800-675-6368