Bronchitis is a viral respiratory infection that causes inflammation of the lining of the bronchial passages. Symptoms include a persistent cough, coughing up mucus that may be discolored, and fatigue. Bronchitis can last just a few weeks or as long as years and is diagnosed as acute or chronic bronchitis, respectively. Acute bronchitis is common and generally occurs alongside a cold or flu, while chronic bronchitis is more rare and is most commonly a side effect of smoking. You should see a physician if you cough up blood, cannot sleep, have difficulty breathing, have a fever of 100.5 degrees or greater, or if your bronchitis symptoms last longer than three weeks or you are at risk of developing pneumonia. A flu shot may help prevent bronchitis because the condition often accompanies the flu.
Our website uses cookies. Please review our privacy policy to find out more about the cookies we use. Browsing our website means you accept these terms.
