Recognizing Bronchitis: Key Signs and Symptoms Explained

ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Oct 29, 2024

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Bronchitis is a lung condition that happens when the bronchial tubes become irritated, leading to coughing that's often accompanied by mucus. There are two types: acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis is common and usually clears up in a few days or weeks. It often follows a respiratory infection like a cold or the flu and might be contagious. On the other hand, when bronchitis symptoms last for at least three months and return for at least two years in a row, it's called chronic bronchitis.

In chronic bronchitis, the airways stay inflamed, causing swelling and increased mucus production. This condition is a common symptom for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). So, it's essential to recognize the signs early to manage it effectively.

Coughing Spells

Coughing spells are a hallmark of both acute and chronic bronchitis. In acute bronchitis, people often develop a sudden, persistent cough with or without mucus. This cough usually resolves on its own over a few weeks. Similarly, in chronic bronchitis, a persistent cough is the most common symptom and is often what prompts people to seek medical attention. If you're coughing more than usual, it might be time to consult a healthcare professional.

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Mucus Production

Mucus, also known as phlegm, is another common factor in bronchitis. In acute bronchitis, the cough might start off dry and irritating but can become productive as the condition progresses, meaning you begin coughing up sputum. The productive cough tends to last longer. In chronic bronchitis, about half of the people experience a productive cough. The color of the sputum can vary. While dark yellow or green sputum might suggest a bacterial infection like pneumonia, color alone isn't a definite sign of infection. If you're coughing up blood-tinged or pink sputum, it's important to seek medical attention immediately.

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Chest Discomfort

Chest discomfort is another symptom that can occur with bronchitis. Whether it's acute or chronic, you may feel a rattle in your chest or a sense of congestion, like your chest is clogged. Additionally, you might experience heaviness or pressure due to inflammation and mucus buildup. While chest pain is rare in chronic bronchitis, those with acute bronchitis might feel chest pain from prolonged or forceful coughing. If chest discomfort persists, it's advisable to get it checked out.

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Wheezing

When the airways are inflamed, wheezing can occur. In acute bronchitis, you might experience wheezing, which is a high-pitched whistling sound when you breathe. In chronic bronchitis, wheezing may be present if you also have asthma. This sound happens when air moves through narrowed airways, which can be due to irritation or mucus buildup. Wheezing can occur during inhaling or exhaling, but it's usually more noticeable when exhaling. If you're wheezing, a doctor might prescribe a bronchodilator to help open the airways or a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation.

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Breathlessness

Irritation, mucus, and constant coughing can lead to shortness of breath. Coughing spells might be triggered by irritants like cigarette smoke, chemicals, or dry air, making breathing more difficult. There are various ways to treat bronchitis symptoms. For acute bronchitis, over-the-counter cough suppressants can reduce coughing, and expectorants can loosen mucus to make coughing less harsh. Drinking hot tea with honey or using a humidifier may also provide relief. For chronic bronchitis, doctors might recommend quitting smoking, using medications to clear the airways, oxygen therapy, or learning breathing techniques to improve respiration.

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Low-Grade Fever

A low-grade fever, generally less than 100.4°F, may accompany both acute and chronic bronchitis. However, it's more common in acute bronchitis caused by an upper respiratory infection. High-grade fevers are unusual in either form and may indicate pneumonia or influenza. If you have a fever over 102°F, it's time to seek medical care, as additional treatment might be necessary. Remember, it's better to be safe than sorry when it comes to high fevers.

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Chills

Chills are a common symptom, especially in acute bronchitis caused by a virus. Chills are the body's way of raising its core temperature and may occur before or during a fever. If bronchitis is accompanied by a high fever with chills, it often occurs with a cold or other upper airway infection. This symptom is generally mild and tends to resolve on its own. However, if chills persist, consulting a healthcare provider is a good idea.

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Difficulty Breathing

While bronchitis can cause shortness of breath, it doesn't usually lead to severe difficulty breathing. However, pneumonia is a complication of bronchitis, and difficulty breathing can be a symptom of that. If you're unable to fully exhale or inhale or feel like something is physically preventing you from breathing, it's crucial to see a medical professional immediately. Other pneumonia symptoms include a high fever up to 105°F, rapid breathing, rapid heart rate, chills, sweating, loss of appetite, fatigue, and confusion.

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Fatigue

Feeling fatigued is common when dealing with bronchitis. If acute bronchitis results from an infection, your body uses energy to fight off the bacteria or virus, which can make you feel tired. Sometimes, coughing can be so forceful that it leads to chest or muscle pain, making it difficult to sleep. At the end of the day, rest is essential during bronchitis, as it gives your body the time it needs to heal. Make sure to get plenty of sleep and avoid overexerting yourself.

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Sore Throat

Since acute bronchitis usually starts with a viral infection, a sore throat can be an early symptom. Cold viruses typically begin in the upper airway, starting with nasal congestion, sinus infection, or a sore throat, and then spread lower into the airway. If you notice a sore throat developing alongside other symptoms, it's a sign your body might be dealing with more than just a common cold.

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Headache and Body Aches

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Preventive Measures

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The Takeaway

Both acute and chronic bronchitis are common conditions that affect many people. Acute bronchitis typically resolves on its own within a few weeks, but chronic bronchitis can last for years and may require ongoing management. Bronchitis can lead to complications like pneumonia, which can be severe. Therefore, it's vital to recognize the symptoms of complications early. See a doctor if you're experiencing increasing shortness of breath, a high fever, or if your cough doesn't go away after two or three weeks. The bottom line is, timely medical attention can make a significant difference in your recovery.

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