Student Health Center
Bronchitis
- MaryAnne Cristodero
Bronchitis is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation of the linings of the bronchi, the airways that facilitate the airflow between the trachea and the lungs. People with this condition may find it difficult to pass air in and out of their lungs. Bronchitis is divided into two types: acute and chronic.
Chronic Bronchitis, on the other hand, is a serious condition that is a chronic inflammation of the airways. This causes a persistent cough accompanied by mucus. This is usually a disease that affects people who are long-term smokers and is not a diagnosis of otherwise healthy young adults.
Acute Bronchitis is usually caused by viruses that cause flu and colds. These viruses are spread through physical contact or air when coughing. Sometimes, chemicals and bacteria can cause this condition. Those who are exposed to tobacco smoke, fumes, vapors, dust, and air pollution are more prone to acute bronchitis. People suffering from acute bronchitis may experience severe symptoms, such as coughing that can last for several weeks.
The symptoms of acute bronchitis may include:
Cough, which may produce clear, yellow, or green mucus. However, the presence of purulent sputum (yellow or green mucus) is not predictive of a bacterial infection.
Wheezing
Low-grade fever
Chest tightness or pain
Shortness of breath (in severe cases or with physical exertion)
Feeling of tiredness
How is Acute Bronchitis Treated?
The Student Health Center may recommend rest, lots of fluids, and fever-reducing medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
If the Student Health Center thinks you have a bacterial infection, you may be given antibiotics. But antibiotics don't work against viruses, which are the most common (greater than 90% of cases) cause of acute bronchitis.
Other treatments may include:
A humidifier or steam to ease breathing and help loosen mucus
Inhaled medicine to open airways if you are wheezing
Cough medicine
If you smoke- quit smoking!
Avoid irritants such as air pollution, secondhand smoke, fumes, dust, and vapors
In some cases a chest x-ray may be ordered.
If you are not feeling better in a few days or your symptoms are worsening please return to the Student Health Center.
