Are you experiencing a persistent cough and feeling exhausted or wiped out? You may have bronchitis.

Bronchitis is a common respiratory condition that can affect anyone, anywhere, at any time, but it’s even more commonplace during the winter months. 

With the right care and attention, you can bounce back from bronchitis—and maybe even avoid the illness altogether. 

Let’s discuss symptoms, diagnosis, and management for bronchitis so you can get back to feeling healthy and happy during your winter excursions.

What is Bronchitis?

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the air passages that carry air to the lungs. 

It can be acute or chronic, with acute bronchitis typically caused by viruses such as the common cold or influenza, while chronic bronchitis is often linked to long-term exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Bronchitis

How do you know if you have bronchitis? The symptoms can vary, but common signs include the following.

• Persistent Cough: A persistent cough is one of the hallmark symptoms of bronchitis. It may start as a dry cough and progress to a productive wet cough with mucus.
• Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath is another common symptom of bronchitis. If you have bronchitis, shortness of breath can be especially noticeable during physical activity such as walking or exercising.
• Chest Discomfort: Some people may experience discomfort or a feeling of tightness in the chest when they have bronchitis.
• Fatigue: Bronchitis can be draining, often leaving individuals feeling fatigued and run down.
• Fever and Chills: In cases of acute bronchitis, you may experience fever and chills on top of other symptoms.

Diagnosing Bronchitis

If you suspect that you have bronchitis, seeking medical attention is crucial for an accurate diagnosis. 

Experienced healthcare professionals can employ various diagnostic methods, including the following.

• Physical Examination: A thorough examination can provide valuable insights into your symptoms and overall health.
• Chest X-ray: Imaging studies, such as a chest X-ray, may be conducted to rule out other respiratory conditions and assess the extent of inflammation.
• Computed Tomography: Commonly referred to as CT scans, this computer imaging procedure is used frequently in the ER, and can accurately test the function of your lungs.

What to Do if You Have Bronchitis

Once diagnosed, managing bronchitis often involves a combination of medical treatment and self-care. Here are some steps you can take.

• Rest and Hydration: Adequate rest is crucial for your body to recover. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids to help loosen up and flush out excess mucus.
• Bronchodilators: In some cases, bronchodilators such as inhalers may be prescribed to help open up the airways and ease breathing.
• Cough Suppressants: Cough medicines may be recommended to alleviate persistent coughing, especially if the coughing interferes with your sleep.
• Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help you manage chest discomfort and reduce fever.
• Avoid Irritants: If your bronchitis is triggered or exacerbated by irritants such as smoke or pollutants, do your best to avoid exposure to these substances. You may even want to consider wearing a face mask on days where the air quality is poor. 

When to Seek Emergency Care for Bronchitis

While most cases of bronchitis can be managed with rest and at-home care, there are instances where emergency medical attention is necessary. 

Seek immediate help if you experience any of the following symptoms.

• Severe Shortness of Breath: If you’re struggling to breathe, it’s crucial to seek emergency care.
• Chest Pain: Never ignore chest pain or pressure—it could indicate a more serious underlying condition.
• Confusion or Fainting: If you experience confusion or fainting, it may be a sign of oxygen deprivation, requiring prompt medical attention.

If you suspect you have bronchitis or are experiencing severe respiratory symptoms such as, 

• A cough that persists for three weeks
• Shortness of breath
• Fever above 100.4℉

don’t hesitate to visit Hospitality Health ER for prompt and expert medical care. 

For more topics related to health and wellness, follow along with our Hospitality Health ER blog! We’ve recently covered related topics in Managing Fall Asthma: 6 Tips for Parents and Understanding Hives: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment. For giveaways, updates, and COVID-19 tips, like us on Facebook and Instagram.