How many days does bronchitis last

Medically reviewed by Dr. Kenneth Knowles, MD on January 16th, The majority of people with bronchitis have symptoms for about 10 to 14 days, although some symptoms notably cough and fatigue may last up to a month. Older adults can experience disruptive symptoms for longer and may have higher risk for potentially serious complications like pneumonia. An important consideration when discussing the duration of bronchitis is what type is present.

Most cases of bronchitis are acute, meaning that it develops as a result of a virus, bacterial infection, or inhaled air pollutants. Acute bronchitis usually lasts for ten to 14 days and may occur after a common cold or another upper respiratory infection. Chronic bronchitis, on the other hand, is a more serious condition that falls under the umbrella of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD. It is defined as long-term bronchial tube inflammation that produces a persistent, phlegmy cough for longer than three months, and then is followed by episodes of bronchitis that come and go for at least two consecutive years.

Chronic bronchitis typically affects smokers, although exposure to toxic chemicals may also contribute to this condition. An inhaler sprays medicine right into your bronchial tubes.

Your doctor will decide if this treatment is right for you. If your doctor thinks bacteria have caused your acute bronchitis, he or she may give you antibiotics. Most cases of acute bronchitis go away on their own in 7 to 10 days. You should call your doctor if:. The risk of developing complications from acute bronchitis, such as pneumonia, is greater in some people. These include:. American Lung Association: Acute Bronchitis. This article was contributed by: familydoctor. This information provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone.

Talk to your family doctor to find out if this information applies to you and to get more information on this subject. Chronic bronchitis is bronchitis that…. Over-the-counter cough suppressants can be used to treat some coughs that are interfering with your sleep or activities, but….

Visit The Symptom Checker. Food Poisoning. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction. Bursitis of the Hip. Abnormal Uterine Bleeding. High Blood Pressure. Home Diseases and Conditions Acute Bronchitis. Table of Contents. Chronic Bronchitis. Chronic Cough. What is acute bronchitis? Read More by Dr. Shilpa Mehta. Symptoms of acute bronchitis The symptoms of acute bronchitis can include: Chest congestion or tightness Cough that brings up clear, yellow, or green mucus Shortness of breath Wheezing Sore throat Fever Chills Body aches Your cough can last for several weeks or more.

What causes acute bronchitis? Lesser-known causes of acute bronchitis are: Bacteria or fungal infections. Exposure to irritants, such as smoke, dust, or fumes. You are at greater risk if your bronchial tubes already have damage. GERD gastroesophageal reflux disease , which causes heartburn. You can get acute bronchitis when stomach acid gets into the bronchial tubes.

How is acute bronchitis diagnosed? Can acute bronchitis be prevented or avoided? Other steps you can take to avoid acute bronchitis include: Wear a mask over your nose and mouth when using lung irritants.

These could include paint, paint remover, or varnish. Cultures of nasal discharge and sputum. Testing the sputum you cough up or swab from your nose may be done to find and identify the microorganism causing the infection. Pulmonary function tests. These are tests that help to measure the ability of the lungs to move air in and out of the lungs. The tests are usually done with special machines that you breathe into.

How is acute bronchitis treated? Treatment is aimed at treating the symptoms, and may include: Avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke Cough medicine Humidifying the air Increased fluid intake Pain relievers and fever reducers, such as acetaminophen Tylenol Quitting smoking Avoid antihistamines because they dry up the secretions and can make the cough worse. What are the complications of acute bronchitis?

Can bronchitis be prevented? Anyone can get pneumococcal disease. However, children younger than age 2, adults ages 65 and older, people with certain medical conditions, and smokers are at the highest risk.

When should I call my health care provider? Key points Bronchitis is inflammation of the breathing tubes. There are several different types of bronchitis.

The two most common are acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by the same viruses that cause colds and the flu. It may also be caused by a bacterial infection, or by physical or chemical agents that are breathed into the lungs.

The most common symptoms for acute bronchitis include cough, chest soreness, runny nose, feeling tired and achy, headache, chills, slight fever, and sore throat. Blood tests, breathing tests, and imaging tests may also be used. If it progresses to pneumonia, then antibiotics may be necessary. Treatment is aimed at managing the symptoms. Next steps Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider: Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen.

Before your visit, write down questions you want answered. Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your healthcare provider tells you. At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your healthcare provider gives you. Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed, and how it will help you. Also know what the side effects are.