During the colder seasons, respiratory illnesses spread quickly. While some illnesses, like the common cold, can typically resolve on their own in just a few days, there are cases where your symptoms may continue to worsen. Bronchitis is a respiratory illness that can occur as a secondary infection following another upper respiratory illness. It often causes severe illness, and one of the most common symptoms is shortness of breath. Keep reading to learn more about common symptoms of bronchitis and treatment options.

If you’re feeling sick and in need of rapid illness diagnosis and treatment, look no further than AFC Urgent Care Stoneham. Our walk-in clinic offers same-day illness care on a walk-in basis. We’re open 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm, making our clinic a convenient option for busy families. Walk into the clinic today!

Symptoms of Bronchitis

Bronchitis is an infection that commonly occurs due to a viral infection. Bronchitis affects the upper respiratory system, mainly including the lungs. It can lead to a severe cough, among other symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath. If you think you may be developing bronchitis, it is important to seek medical treatment. Common symptoms include:

• Itchy or sore throat
• Runny nose
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue and general weakness
• Back and muscle aches
• Fever
• Persistent cough
• Wheezing
• Oddly colored phlegm
• Chest pain

Causes of Bronchitis

• Bacteria:
  Although it isn’t quite common, bronchitis can be caused by bacteria infections that have progressed from already existing respiratory problems. These infections in severe cases often lead to chronic cases of bronchitis.
• Viruses:
  Seventy percent of the cases were found to be traceable to viral bronchial infections. They vary from a common cold and pneumonia to critical respiratory diseases.
• Post-Nasal Drip:
  Post-nasal drip where the excess mucus drips into the throat's back part, leading to irritations in the lungs.
• Allergens:
  The condition may also have its source from allergens like pollens, fungi, and dust. They raise the level of secreted mucus and sometimes in the process obstruct the airways. Another common cause of this disease is from smoke and fumes of other toxic chemicals, especially breathed in repeatedly over a long time. More seriously, first-hand and second-hand smoking has also been cited as a cause of acute bronchitis and most of the upper respiratory infections are quite prevalent in cities due to pollution.

Risk Factors

• Weak Immunity.
• Continuous exposure to toxic fumes.
• Inadequate vaccinations.
• Excessive smoking.
• Prolonged second-hand smoking.

How To Treat or Prevent Bronchitis

Bronchitis can be a serious illness. It often requires medical treatment to clear up, and can cause severe symptoms such as uncontrollable coughing and trouble breathing. The best way to avoid bronchitis is to immediately seek medical care if you’re feeling sick. This will reduce your risk of your symptoms worsening. Other tips for preventing and managing bronchitis include:

1. Avoid Prolonged Contact With Allergens and Pollutants.

One of the more common sources of lingering bronchitis is from exposure to pollutants, especially at a young age or over a long span of time. It largely explains why this condition is widespread in industrial areas or cities with heavy traffic. Patients tend to be sensitive to dust and molds, which are very common airborne allergens. The best strategy is to limit the time spent in the worst areas or at least wear a mask to avoid contact with airborne allergens and irritants.

2. Maintain Good Hygiene

Like most illnesses, bronchitis can be prevented by following good hygiene practices. To avoid getting it, wash your hands regularly, especially after being in crowded places or coming into contact with a sick person.

3. Antivirals and Antibiotics

Antibiotics are a very effective treatment option when it comes to cases caused by bacterial infections. In order to determine whether your illness is caused by a bacterial infection or viral infection, you will need to undergo diagnostic testing by a medical professional. Your medical provider will be able to provide the best course of treatment to ensure a speedy recovery.

4. Use a Humidifier

Humidifiers are a great tool for helping ease symptoms of bronchitis because they add moisture into the air, which allows the mucus in your lungs to loosen up so it can easily escape the lungs.

Visit AFC Urgent Care Stoneham for Cough Treatment in Stoneham, MA

Bronchitis can cause severe symptoms. If you’re feeling sick and think you may have bronchitis, it is important to seek medical care. At AFC Urgent Care Stoneham, our walk-in clinic makes it easy to receive prompt care for bronchitis symptoms. Our board-certified medical providers are available 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm. We never require that you schedule an appointment in advance, simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you! We accept most medical insurance plans and offer affordable rates for self-paying patients. Walk-in today!