Published: 18 Jun 2025

ICD9: 466.0      ICD10: J20.9      ICD11: CA20.0

Acute bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from your lungs.
It's usually caused by a viral infection, similar to those that cause the common cold or flu.

Here's a breakdown of what that means:

Bronchial Tubes: These are the large airways that branch off the trachea (windpipe) and lead into each lung.
Inflammation: This means the lining of the bronchial tubes becomes swollen and irritated.
Viral Infection: This is the most common cause. Viruses like those responsible for colds or the flu are often the culprit.
Acute: This means the condition is short-lived, typically lasting a few weeks.

Symptoms of Acute Bronchitis:

Cough: This is the most common symptom and can be dry or produce mucus (phlegm). The cough may persist for several weeks even after other symptoms improve.
Sore throat: Throat irritation is a common symptom, similar to that experienced during a cold.
Wheezing: A whistling or squeaky sound when you breathe, caused by narrowed airways.
Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling like you can't get enough air.
Chest discomfort: A feeling of tightness or pain in the chest.
Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak.
Mild headache or body aches: Like symptoms of a cold or flu.
Low-grade fever: A slightly elevated temperature.

Causes of Acute Bronchitis:

Viral Infections: As mentioned, viruses are the most frequent cause.
Bacterial Infections: Less commonly, bacteria can cause bronchitis.
Irritants: Exposure to irritants like smoke, dust, fumes, or air pollution can also trigger bronchitis.

Diagnosis:

A doctor usually diagnoses acute bronchitis based on your symptoms and a physical exam. In most cases, further tests aren't necessary. However, a chest X-ray might be recommended if the doctor suspects pneumonia or another lung condition.

Treatment:

Most cases of acute bronchitis resolve on their own within a few weeks. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms:

Rest: Getting plenty of rest allows your body to heal.
Fluids: Drinking plenty of fluids helps thin mucus and prevent dehydration.
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help with fever and body aches.
Cough medicine: Cough suppressants can help with a dry cough, but are often discouraged as coughing helps clear mucus from the lungs. Expectorants can help loosen mucus. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any cough medicine.
Bronchodilators: If you're wheezing or short of breath, your doctor may prescribe bronchodilators to open up your airways. These are often administered through an inhaler.
Antibiotics: Antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections. Since most cases of acute bronchitis are viral, antibiotics are generally not prescribed unless a bacterial infection is suspected.

When to See a Doctor:

You should see a doctor if you experience any of the following:

High fever (over 100.4°F or 38°C)
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Chest pain
Cough that produces bloody mucus
Symptoms that last longer than three weeks
Underlying health conditions like asthma, COPD, or heart disease

Prevention:

Wash your hands frequently: This helps prevent the spread of viruses.
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke: Smoke irritates the lungs and makes you more susceptible to bronchitis.
Get vaccinated: Consider getting a flu shot each year and a pneumococcal vaccine if recommended by your doctor.
Wear a mask: In situations where you might be exposed to irritants or respiratory illnesses, wearing a mask can help protect your airways.

Important Note: The information provided here is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.