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Lungs and Breathing

Acute Bronchitis

This comes from MedlinePlus, from the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Treatments, services and advice can differ in your country; check with a local health professional. Set your country.

Also called Bronchitis, Chest Cold

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry air to your lungs. It causes a cough that often brings up mucus. It can also cause shortness of breath, wheezing, a low fever, and chest tightness. There are two main types of bronchitis: acute and chronic.

Most cases of acute bronchitis get better within several days. But your cough can last for several weeks after the infection is gone.

The same viruses that cause colds and the flu often cause acute bronchitis. These viruses spread through the air when people cough, or through physical contact (for example, on unwashed hands). Being exposed to tobacco smoke, air pollution, dust, vapors, and fumes can also cause acute bronchitis. Less often, bacteria can also cause acute bronchitis.

To diagnose acute bronchitis, your health care provider will ask about your symptoms and listen to your breathing. You may also have other tests.

Treatments include rest, fluids, and aspirin (for adults) or acetaminophen to treat fever. A humidifier or steam can also help. You may need inhaled medicine to open your airways if you are wheezing. Antibiotics won't help if the cause is viral. You may get antibiotics if the cause is bacterial.

NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Courtesy of MedlinePlus, from the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Read the full topic on MedlinePlus

Medicines whose label mentions acute bronchitis

These medicines list it among their uses on the official FDA label. This is not a treatment recommendation: only a clinician who knows your history can decide what’s right for you.

When to get urgent help

If symptoms come on suddenly, are severe, or you’re worried, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department. For anything less urgent, contact your doctor.

Questions to ask your doctor

  • What is the likely cause in my case, and what tests might I need?
  • What are my treatment options, and what are the trade-offs?
  • Which symptoms mean I should seek urgent care?
  • What changes to diet, activity or habits would help?
This is general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice. If you have symptoms that worry you, talk to a health professional, and call your local emergency number if it’s an emergency.