A bronchitis cough is often hard to ignore. It’s usually deep, persistent, and draining, sometimes lingering long after other cold or flu symptoms have faded. Many people describe it as a heavy, chest-centred cough that can feel tight, scratchy, or burning. At first, it may be dry and irritating, but over time it often becomes productive, bringing up mucus. Understanding what this cough feels like, why it happens, and how it should be treated can help you recognise when bronchitis is improving and when it may be turning into something more serious.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of bronchitis, or are in need of general care for a cough, AFC Urgent Care Medford can help. Our walk-in clinic in Medford, Massachusetts offers rapid illness symptom diagnosis and treatment on a walk-in basis. Simply walk-in when it’s convenient, or save your spot online in advance below. We’re open 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm.
Identifying Symptoms of Bronchitis
Bronchitis occurs when the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry air to your lungs become inflamed. This inflammation is most commonly caused by a viral infection, though bacteria, smoking, air pollution, or chemical irritants can also trigger it.
The most noticeable symptom is a persistent cough that lasts for days or even weeks. The cough may produce mucus that appears clear, white, yellow, or green.
Other symptoms often include chest tightness, wheezing, shortness of breath, fatigue, sore throat, mild fever, chills, and body aches. Patients often report that repeated coughing can also lead to muscle soreness in the chest and abdomen, making breathing feel uncomfortable.
Treatment for Bronchitis
Most cases of acute bronchitis improve on their own with supportive care. Rest is essential, as it allows the airways time to heal. Drinking plenty of fluids helps thin mucus, making it easier to clear from the lungs. Warm drinks, honey (for adults), humidifiers, and steam inhalation can ease throat and chest irritation.
Over-the-counter medications may help manage fever, pain, or coughing, but antibiotics are usually unnecessary unless a bacterial infection is confirmed. In some cases, especially when wheezing or shortness of breath is present, a healthcare provider may recommend inhalers or prescription medications to reduce airway inflammation.
Potential Complications of Bronchitis
Although bronchitis often resolves without complications, some people are at higher risk of developing more serious issues. Older adults, smokers, and individuals with asthma, COPD, or weakened immune systems may experience prolonged symptoms or worsening inflammation.
Potential complications include pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, or repeated respiratory infections. Warning signs include a cough lasting longer than three weeks, worsening breathlessness, high or persistent fever, chest pain, or coughing up blood. These symptoms should not be ignored.
Get Cough Treatment by Walking Into AFC Urgent Care Medford
A lingering or worsening cough can significantly affect sleep, work, and overall quality of life. If your bronchitis symptoms are severe, not improving, or interfering with breathing, medical evaluation is important. At AFC Urgent Care Medford, we offer same-day care for coughs, including cough diagnosis and treatment for common conditions like bronchitis and pneumonia.
We’re open 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm, and never require patients to schedule an appointment in advance. We accept most medical insurance plans, and have affordable self-pay rates for patients without insurance. To learn more about the conditions we treat, walk in for same-day care or give us a call at (617) 582-2800.
