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Acute Bronchitis

Acute Bronchitis

Acute bronchitis is a problem with your lungs. It can last for a short time or for a longer time. The lining of the airways to the lungs are irritated and swollen. It is a mild health problem that most often goes away on its own.

Name

Acute Bronchitis Discharge Instructions, Adult

About this topic

Acute bronchitis is a problem with your lungs. It can last for a short time or for a longer time. The lining of the airways to the lungs are irritated and swollen. It is a mild health problem that most often goes away on its own.

What drugs may be needed?

Make breathing easier,Control coughing,Lower swelling in your airways,Prevent infection,Control extra mucus

What problems could happen?

Long-term swelling of the lungs. This is chronic bronchitis.,Asthma,Lung infection,Cough continues even after you feel better

When do I need to call the doctor?

Signs of infection. These include a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, chills, cough, more sputum or change in color of sputum.,Breathing is getting worse: harder or faster than before or you feel like you are getting less air,You need to lean forward to help you breathe when sitting,You are using your rib muscles to help you breathe. You see the skin between your ribs going in as you breathe.,Trouble breathing when lying down flat on your back,Feeling extra sleepy or confused,Fingertips, fingernails, skin, or lips are blue,You are not feeling better in 2 to 3 days or you are feeling worse

Body systems

Adult,Ambulatory Care,Emergency Medicine,Respiratory

What are other common names?

Adult Acute Bronchitis,Adult Bronchitis, Acute,Bronchial Irritation,Bronchitis,Bronchitis, Acute,Chest Cold,Inflamed Bronchi,Inflamed Bronchiole,Inflammation of the Bronchi,Inflammation of the Bronchiole,Lower Respiratory Tract Infection,Tracheobronchitis,Upper Respiratory Tract Infection

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider’s advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you.

Copyright

Copyright © 2020 Wolters Kluwer Clinical Drug Information, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors. All rights reserved.

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