Definition. Bronchitis occurs when the airways in the lungs become inflamed (swollen) and produce mucus, which causes you to cough.
Causes. Acute bronchitis, also known as a chest cold, is usually caused by a viral infection.
Symptoms. Common symptoms of bronchitis include mucus production, chest soreness, fatigue, mild headache/body aches, low-grade fever, watery eyes, and/or sore throat. Most symptoms last up to 2 weeks, though the cough may linger as long as 8 weeks.
When to Seek Medical Care. You should schedule an appointment with your doctor or visit the local urgent care clinic if you experience a temperature >100.4 degrees; bloody mucus; shortness of breath; symptoms lasting longer than 3 weeks; or repeated episodes of bronchitis.
Treatment. Since bronchitis is usually caused by a virus, symptoms almost always improve on their own and antibiotics are not needed. If, however, your healthcare provider decided that you do have a more serious infection such as pneumonia or whooping cough, antibiotics will likely be prescribed.
