It seems like everyone is getting sick with respiratory illnesses lately, and bronchitis is yet another respiratory illness to add to the list. In fact, acute bronchitis is one of the most common respiratory illnesses—especially during cold and flu season—due to its contagious nature.

There are actually two types of bronchitis—acute and chronic—and our AFC Urgent Care Ballantyne team highlights what you need to know about them below!

What Is Bronchitis?

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the lungs. People who have bronchitis often cough up thickened mucus, which can be discolored, and like we said earlier, bronchitis can be both acute and chronic.

We’ve listed the most common symptoms of both acute and chronic bronchitis below.

Common Bronchitis Symptoms

• A cough that is frequent and produces mucus
• A lack of energy
• A wheezing sound when breathing (may or may not be present)
• A fever (may or may not be present)
• Shortness of breath

What Are the Causes of Bronchitis?

Each type of bronchitis is caused by different things. Usually, acute bronchitis is brought on by a viral infection, though it may also be caused by a bacterial infection. The flu and colds are examples of viral infections.

Chronic bronchitis is usually, but not always, caused by smoking tobacco.It can also be caused by exposure to secondhand cigarette smoke, air pollution, dust or toxic gases. Your risk can be increased by family history of bronchitis, having asthma and allergies, and having gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If you have bronchitis, there are things you can do to feel better, and we’ve listed some of them below.

Home Remedies for Bronchitis

• Drink fluids every one to two hours, unless your doctor has restricted your fluid intake.
• Rest.
• Don’t smoke. Stay away from all kinds of smoke.
• Relieve body aches by taking aspirin or acetaminophen.
• Follow your doctor’s instructions on ways to help you clear your mucus.
• Use a humidifier.
• Try herbal teas or lemon water with one to two tablespoons of honey to provide comfort.

Are you worried that you may have bronchitis? Get the peace of mind you need by visiting our AFC center today!