Bronchitis: How to Spot It and What to Do

A cough that won't quit is more than annoying — it might be bronchitis. Bronchitis means the airways in your lungs are inflamed, usually causing coughing, mucus, and chest tightness. It can be short-lived (acute) or long-term (chronic), and the care is different for each. This page gives practical signs to watch for and clear steps you can take at home or with your doctor.

Symptoms to watch for

Acute bronchitis often starts like a cold: sore throat, runny nose, then a cough that turns wet or productive within a few days. Expect: a cough that lasts up to three weeks, yellow or green phlegm, mild fever, and chest discomfort. Chronic bronchitis is different — it’s a productive cough most days for at least three months in two straight years. Chronic cases usually come with wheeze, breathlessness on exertion, and frequent flare-ups.

Red flags that need quick medical attention include: rapid breathing, severe shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, confusion, or a high fever that doesn’t come down. If you have heart disease, COPD, diabetes, or a weakened immune system, treat any concerning respiratory symptoms as more urgent.

Treatment and practical home care

Most acute bronchitis is caused by viruses, so antibiotics aren’t needed unless a bacterial infection is likely or symptoms worsen. Here’s what helps:

• Rest and fluids: Drink water and sleep; your body fights infection better when rested.
• Steam and humidity: A humidifier or hot shower loosens mucus and eases coughing.
• Expectorants: Over-the-counter guaifenesin can help thin mucus so you cough it up more easily.
• Inhalers and bronchodilators: If you wheeze or have underlying asthma/COPD, a bronchodilator prescribed by your doctor can open airways fast.
• Avoid smoke and irritants: Tobacco smoke, strong fumes, and cold dry air make symptoms worse.

Chronic bronchitis needs a long-term plan: stop smoking if you smoke, get vaccinated (flu and pneumococcal where recommended), use inhaled therapies as prescribed, and follow pulmonary rehab if suggested. Your doctor may order a chest X-ray or lung function tests if symptoms linger or to rule out pneumonia and COPD.

If a healthcare provider prescribes antibiotics, inhaled steroids, or other meds, follow the plan and schedule follow-ups. Don’t use leftover antibiotics or share them — that can do more harm than good.

Bronchitis often clears on its own, but persistent or severe symptoms deserve a doctor’s visit. Quick action when red flags appear prevents complications and gets you back to breathing easier faster.