Bronchitis
التهاب الشعب الهوائية
Inflammation of the airways carrying air to and from the lungs, most often caused by the same viruses as the common cold, leading to a persistent cough, mucus production, fatigue, and mild chest discomfort. Acute bronchitis usually resolves within a few weeks without antibiotics; a cough lasting longer or worsening may need evaluation.
This information is for general awareness only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Quick answer
Bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry air to the lungs. Acute bronchitis usually follows a viral infection such as a cold or flu; chronic bronchitis is a long-term cough with mucus, mostly in smokers, and is part of COPD.
The main symptom is a cough that may bring up clear, yellow or green mucus, sometimes with a sore throat, chest discomfort, wheeze and mild fever. The cough can last two to three weeks.
Acute bronchitis usually gets better on its own with rest and fluids; antibiotics don't help viral infections. See a doctor for breathlessness, high fever, coughing blood, symptoms lasting more than three weeks, or if you have lung or heart disease.
Symptoms
Persistent cough
Dry at first, then often with mucus.
Mucus
Clear, white, yellow or green — colour alone doesn't show whether it's bacterial.
Chest tightness or soreness
Wheezing or mild breathlessness
Sore throat and runny nose
Low-grade fever and tiredness
Cough lasting weeks
It often lingers after other symptoms improve.
Symptom guides
Causes and risk factors
Causes
- Viral infection — Usually the same viruses that cause colds and flu.
- Bacterial infection — Less commonly; a doctor decides if antibiotics are needed.
- Irritants — Tobacco smoke, air pollution, dust and chemical fumes.
- Long-term smoking — The main cause of chronic bronchitis.
Risk factors
- Smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke
- Recent cold or flu
- Occupational dust or fumes
- Lung diseases such as asthma or COPD
- Weakened immunity
- Very young or older age
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux
How is it diagnosed?
Acute bronchitis is usually diagnosed from your symptoms and examination. Tests are used mainly to rule out pneumonia or other causes.
History and examination
Cough duration, mucus, breathlessness, fever, smoking; listening to the chest.
Chest X-ray
If pneumonia or another lung problem is suspected.
Sputum tests
Occasionally, when bacterial infection is suspected.
Spirometry
For a recurring or long-term cough, to check for asthma or COPD.
Treatment
Acute bronchitis usually clears on its own. Treatment aims to ease symptoms; a doctor decides if any medicine beyond that is needed.
Rest and fluids
Stay hydrated and rest while your body recovers.
Symptom relief
Simple pain and fever relief as appropriate; honey may soothe cough in adults and older children.
Avoid smoke and irritants
Smoking slows recovery.
Antibiotics
Not helpful for viral bronchitis; used only if a bacterial infection is suspected.
Treating chronic bronchitis or COPD
Stopping smoking, inhaled medicines and pulmonary rehabilitation under medical care.
Cough medicines are not recommended for young children; ask a doctor or pharmacist.
When should you see a doctor?
Arrange a medical assessment if
- Cough lasting more than three weeks
- Repeated episodes of bronchitis
- Fever lasting more than three days
- Underlying lung or heart disease, or weakened immunity
- A young child or older adult with a persistent cough
Seek urgent care if
- Shortness of breath at rest or difficulty breathing
- Coughing up blood
- Blue lips or confusion
- Chest pain, or high fever with fast breathing
Prevention
Don't smoke and avoid second-hand smoke
Wash hands often
To reduce cold and flu infections.
Get recommended vaccinations
Such as annual flu vaccine and pneumococcal vaccine where advised.
Protect yourself from dust and fumes
Use suitable protection at work.
Frequently asked questions
What is bronchitis?
Inflammation of the airways (bronchial tubes) causing cough and mucus.
How long does bronchitis last?
Acute bronchitis often lasts one to three weeks, and the cough can linger.
Is bronchitis contagious?
The viruses that usually cause it are contagious, though bronchitis from irritants or smoking is not.
Do I need antibiotics for bronchitis?
Usually no. Most cases are viral, and antibiotics don't help.
What is the difference between bronchitis and pneumonia?
Bronchitis affects the airways; pneumonia is an infection of the lung tissue itself and is often more serious, with high fever and breathlessness.
What is chronic bronchitis?
A long-term productive cough lasting at least three months a year for two years, usually linked to smoking, and part of COPD.
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Medical sources
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