Acute Bronchitis
Acute bronchitis is the inflammation of the small tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs, which are called bronchi.
The condition can occur in short bouts that last a few weeks and generally result from a viral infection.
What is acute bronchitis?
Acute bronchitis, which can also be called a chest cold, often develops when you have a cold, the flu or another respiratory infection — most commonly a virus. The irritation in your lungs can cause them to fill with mucus, which causes you to cough.
Symptoms of Acute Bronchitis
The most noticeable symptom is a productive (mucus-producing) cough that lasts for days or weeks. Other associated symptoms include:
Fatigue
Low-grade fever and chills
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Acute Bronchitis Treatment
Acute bronchitis is typically not treated with medication as it often goes away on its own, but a provider may recommend over-the-counter medication or pain relievers.
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How long does acute bronchitis last?
While acute bronchitis often clears up within a few weeks without intervention, persistent, intense coughing or concerning fevers may prompt a visit to an urgent care clinic.