Acute bronchitis is characterized by swelling and inflammation of the bronchi, which are the primary airways that deliver air to the lungs. This swelling narrows the airways, making it difficult to breathe. Other bronchitis symptoms include coughing and mucous production. Acute denotes that the symptoms have only been present for a brief time.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of acute bronchitis include:

• Chest discomfort

• Cough that produces mucus, which may be clear or yellow-green.

• Fatigue

• Fever is usually low-grade.

• Shortness of breath worsens with physical activity.

• People with asthma experience wheezing.

Causes

Bronchitis is usually always caused by a virus. However, almost anything that irritates your airways can trigger it. Bronchitis can be caused by both infectious and noninfectious causes, including:

• Viruses. Bronchitis is caused by several viruses, including influenza (the flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus, rhinovirus (the common cold), and coronavirus.

• Bacteria. Bacteria that cause bronchitis include Bordetella pertussis, Mycoplasma pneumonia, and Chlamydia pneumonia.

• Pollution.

• Smoking cigarettes or marijuana (cannabis).

Diagnosis

Acute bronchitis is often diagnosed based on symptoms and physical examination. A doctor may use a stethoscope to listen for wheezing or unusual lung sounds. In some situations, additional tests, such as a chest X-ray, sputum test, or pulmonary function test, may be performed to rule out other illnesses, including pneumonia or asthma.

Treatment Options

For most people, acute bronchitis resolves on its own without the need for medical intervention. However, the following measures can help manage symptoms and speed recovery:

• Stay hydrated.

• Rest.

• Use a humidifier.

• Over-the-counter medications.

• Avoid irritants.

Medications 

Most likely, your doctor will not recommend drugs to treat your bronchitis. In some circumstances, drugs can help you with symptoms or treat the underlying cause, including:

• Antiviral medications. 

• Bronchodilators. 

• Anti-inflammatory medications. 

• Cough suppressants. 

• Antibiotics. 

• COPD/asthma treatment. 

Prevention

The greatest strategy to lower your risk of bronchitis is to prevent getting sick from viruses and other sources of lung inflammation. Specific approaches to lower risk include:

• Avoid being near others if you or they are sick. This is especially true in the winter, when people congregate indoors.

• Avoid smoking and other irritants.

• If you have asthma or allergies, you should avoid any triggers.

• Use a humidifier. Moist air has a lower chance of irritating your lungs.

• Take plenty of rest.

• Eat a nutritious diet.

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. If you cannot use soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

• Check your flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19 vaccination status.

Conclusion

Acute bronchitis, while frequent and typically mild, can cause severe discomfort. Recognizing symptoms, controlling them with fluids, rest, and avoiding irritants, and seeking medical guidance as needed are all critical to recovery. Preventive measures, such as excellent hygiene and vaccines, can lower the risk. With correct treatment, most cases cure rapidly, restoring respiratory health and overall well-being.