Overview – Bronchitis Treatment
What is Bronchitis?
The condition that falls in between the common cold and pneumonia in severity is called bronchitis. Symptoms include a frequent cough that produces mucus, fatigue, fever, and a wheezing sound when breathing. Find out how to treat, or better yet, prevent bronchitis.
What are the symptoms of bronchitis?
Symptoms of bronchitis include:
- A cough that is frequent and produces mucus.
- A lack of energy.
- A wheezing sound when breathing (may or may not be present).
- A fever (may or may not be present).
- Shortness of breath
What is the difference between bronchitis and pneumonia?
In terms of symptoms, these two diseases may seem very similar. Both cause cough, fever, fatigue, and a heavy feeling in your chest. Bronchitis can sometimes progress to pneumonia.
Despite similarities, the conditions are different. First, bronchitis involves the bronchial tubes, while pneumonia affects the alveoli, or the air sacs in the lungs. Second, pneumonia symptoms are usually much worse. In addition, pneumonia can be life-threatening, especially in older people and other vulnerable groups.
If your symptoms do not get better, it is best to be seen by a medical care provider.
How is bronchitis diagnosed?
At iCare Emergency Room & Urgent Care your care team will do a physical examination and take a medical history. They may ask if you have had a cold recently, how long your cough has lasted, and if you produce mucus when you cough. In addition, they may order a chest X-ray, tests for viruses in your upper respiratory secretions or blood tests.
Bronchitis Treatment
The treatment for bronchitis depends on what type you have. If you have acute bronchitis, you might not need any treatment. Or you might use over-the-counter drugs that break up mucus or that treat fever or pain. If you have a bacterial infection, your doctor might prescribe antibiotics.
If you have chronic bronchitis, treatment will be different and is recommended to be seen by a primary care provider.
When you visit iCare in either Frisco or Fort Worth, our team of doctors and nurses will evaluate, diagnose and plan treatment. Our medical practitioners are experienced in a range of medical treatments to help you get to feeling your best again. Walk-ins are always welcome, appointments recommended.
