Bronchitis is an uncomfortable ailment that includes symptoms such as persistent cough, tightness in the chest, fatigue, and mucus. These are just a few of many possible symptoms a patient undergoes when dealing with a bout of acute bronchitis. 10 million trips are made every year to a physician for cases of acute bronchitis, for which there is not much that can be done. Many patients wonder when their symptoms require medical attention and when they should forego a doctor’s visit.
What is Bronchitis?
Acute bronchitis is the most common form of bronchitis. This is not to be confused with chronic bronchitis, a more serious type of bronchitis, that is a form of chronic pulmonary disease. Acute bronchitis, or a chest cold, occurs when the airways of lungs swell. This produces mucus in the lungs which is responsible for the cough associated with bronchitis.
Acute bronchitis often goes away within three weeks without medical intervention. Bronchitis is often a result of a virus, and occasionally bacteria. Therefore, antibiotics are not recommended and will not relieve symptoms.
Symptoms of Bronchitis
An acute case of bronchitis can lead to many uncomfortable symptoms, including:
- Sore Throat
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Body Aches
- Chest Soreness
- Congestion
This is in addition to the persistent cough and should dissipate within a few weeks.
Treatment at Home for Acute Cases of Bronchitis
If your bronchial symptoms are mild there are several things that you can do at home to help yourself recover quickly.
- Invest in a humidifier or vaporizer.
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids.
- Try using a saline nasal spray.
- Drink Honey in a warm tea to relieve your cough.
There are also several over-the-counter medications available to help ease your symptoms. Ask your pharmacist which medications are the safest and will work best for your case.
Seek Medical Attention Right Away
If you experience any of the following symptoms you should seek medical attention right away.
- Fever over 100.4
- Cough that produces blood
- Trouble breathing
- Repeated episodes of bronchitis
Also, if your symptoms do not clear up in a few weeks you need to seek medical attention right away to determine if another illness may be causing your symptoms.
Visit an Urgent Care Today
Stop at a local Urgent Care office for any symptom that is severe or concerning, even if is not listed in the aforementioned symptoms. The health personnel at your local urgent care office treat your health as a priority and are ready to help you get well.
