Bronchitis Specialist

What is bronchitis?

Bronchitis refers to the inflammation of the bronchial tube lining. Your bronchial tubes transport air to and from your lungs.

Bronchitis can be acute or chronic and often develops from a cold or another respiratory infection. Acute bronchitis usually resolves in about a week.

Chronic bronchitis refers to symptoms and a cough that lasts at least three months, with recurring bouts that happen for at least two consecutive years. Chronic bronchitis is one of the multiple conditions included in COPD.

What are the symptoms of bronchitis?

Signs and symptoms of bronchitis might include:

• Cough
• Mucus production, which can be white, clear, yellowish-gray or green in color (in rare cases it might be streaked with blood)
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Slight chills and fever
• Chest discomfort

Acute bronchitis often comes along with cold symptoms, such as a mild headache or body aches.

What causes bronchitis?

Acute bronchitis is typically caused by viruses, often the same viruses that cause the flu and colds (influenza).

Most commonly, chronic bronchitis is caused by cigarette smoking. Certain factors might also play a role in the development of bronchitis, such as:

• Air pollution
• Dust
• Toxic gases
• A weakened immune system
• Gastric reflux

Older adults and younger children are more likely to get bronchitis. In some people, bronchitis can lead to pneumonia. If you have symptoms or concerns, it’s best to visit Las Vegas Family Medicine to evaluate your respiratory health.

How is bronchitis treated?

After diagnosing your bronchitis with a discussion of your symptoms and current health, a review of your medical history, a physical exam, and any necessary testing, such as bloodwork and a chest X-ray, Dr. Owen helps you decide the best treatment.

Most cases of bronchitis are caused by viral infections, so antibiotics aren’t effective. In some instances, bacteria might be involved, and Dr. Owen might prescribe antibiotics to fight the bacteria.

Dr. Owen might suggest cough medicine, an inhaler or allergy medicines, anti-inflammatories, and healthy lifestyle changes to combat your bronchitis.

You should also avoid lung irritants by not smoking and wearing a mask when you’re around polluted air or when you’re exposed to irritants, such as household cleaners with strong fumes or paint.

If the cold air outside aggravates your condition you might want to wear a cold-air face mask outside. Wash your hands and practice good hygiene and get vaccinated from the influenza virus and some types of pneumonia.

Find relief and protect your respiratory health. Call Las Vegas Family Medicine or schedule online today.