Bronchitis Treatment Near Me in Indian Trail, NC

Bronchitis symptoms? Walk in today. Our urgent care near you in Indian Trail, NC is open 7 days a week, no appointment needed for quick, professional testing, treatment, and on-site x-ray services.

Bronchitis occurs when the bronchial tubes, which carry air in and out of your lungs, become inflamed. This inflammation causes coughing, mucus buildup, and breathing discomfort. There are two main types: acute bronchitis and chronic bronchitis.

Acute bronchitis, often called a chest cold, usually develops after a viral infection like the flu or a cold. It causes swelling and excess mucus that triggers a persistent cough. Symptoms typically last a few weeks and improve as the infection clears. Chronic bronchitis is a long-term condition that causes frequent or ongoing coughing, often known as a smoker’s cough. It is commonly linked to smoking or long-term exposure to irritants such as air pollution, chemical fumes, or dust. Chronic bronchitis requires ongoing medical care because it can be part of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).

If you are searching for bronchitis treatment near me, our clinic provides fast, reliable care for both acute and chronic bronchitis. Our walk-in clinic offers convenient and affordable treatment, open seven days a week with no appointment required.

What Causes Bronchitis

Acute bronchitis usually develops after:

• Viral infections such as the common cold or flu
• Bacterial infections (less common)
• Exposure to irritants like smoke, dust, or air pollution

When your body fights off these infections or irritants, the bronchial tubes become swollen and produce excess mucus. This narrows your airways, makes it harder to breathe, and causes a persistent cough.

Chronic bronchitis develops from ongoing irritation of the lungs. The biggest risk factor is smoking, though exposure to secondhand smoke, pollution, or chemical fumes can also cause long-term damage. Over time, the bronchial tubes stay inflamed, and the cough becomes constant or recurring.

Common Bronchitis Symptoms

Acute bronchitis symptoms typically last up to three weeks and may include:

• Persistent cough with or without mucus
• Chest soreness or tightness
• Fatigue or low energy
• Mild headache or body aches
• Sore or scratchy throat
• Shortness of breath or wheezing
• Low-grade fever

Chronic bronchitis symptoms may last for three months or longer and can come back year after year. Frequent coughing, thick mucus, and shortness of breath can signal a chronic condition that needs medical attention.

If your cough lingers or worsens, it is best to visit an urgent care clinic to rule out pneumonia, asthma, or other respiratory issues.

What is the Difference Between Bronchitis and Pneumonia?

Bronchitis and pneumonia both affect the lungs, but they are very different conditions. Bronchitis occurs when the bronchial tubes become inflamed, usually after a cold or flu. It often leads to a lingering cough and mucus buildup, but symptoms are typically milder and improve with rest and symptom relief.

Pneumonia is more serious. It affects the air sacs inside the lungs, which can fill with fluid or pus. This leads to stronger symptoms and often requires medical treatment.

Key differences include:

• Location:

• Bronchitis affects the bronchial tubes (airways).
• Pneumonia affects the air sacs within the lungs.

• Common symptoms:

• Bronchitis: persistent cough, mucus, chest tightness, mild shortness of breath.
• Pneumonia: high fever, chills, sharp chest pain, rapid breathing, significant fatigue.

• Severity:

• Bronchitis is often mild and viral.
• Pneumonia can be viral, bacterial, or fungal and is usually more serious.

If you’re unsure which one you’re dealing with, visiting urgent care can help you get an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment.

How We Diagnose and Treat Bronchitis

When you visit our clinic for bronchitis treatment, our medical team will start by reviewing your symptoms and listening to your lungs. If needed, we may perform tests such as:

• A chest X-ray to check for pneumonia
• Oxygen level testing to measure breathing
• Mucus sample testing to determine if the infection is viral or bacterial
• Can provide steroid shot when needed

Most bronchitis cases are viral, which means antibiotics are usually not needed. Instead, our providers focus on relieving your symptoms and helping your body recover.

Tips for relieving bronchitis symptoms:

• Get plenty of rest to support recovery
• Drink fluids to loosen mucus
• Sleep slightly elevated
• Use a humidifier or vaporizer to ease breathing - make sure you clean and disinfect your humidifiers
• Try saline nasal sprays or steam inhalation
• Use cough drops or lozenges to soothe your throat
• Take a spoonful of honey (for adults) to calm coughing

Avoid smoking or exposure to smoke while recovering, as it can worsen inflammation and delay healing.

When to Visit AFC for Bronchitis

If you are dealing with a lingering cough, chest congestion, or difficulty breathing, visit our clinic for quick and effective bronchitis treatment near me. Our experienced medical team will evaluate your symptoms, rule out serious conditions, and recommend the best treatment plan for your needs.

We are open seven days a week, and no appointment is needed. Walk in anytime for high-quality, affordable care that helps you breathe easier.

Our clinic provides trusted, convenient care for all your respiratory health needs.

AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail, NC
14001 E. Independence Blvd. Suite C, Indian Trail, NC 28079
(704) 247-6598