What is Bronchitis?
Bronchitis is a respiratory illness caused by the inflammation and swelling of the bronchial tubes that carry air to and from your lungs. Bronchitis can be either acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis will usually clear up within a week to 10 days. If you have repeated cases of bronchitis you may be suffering from a chronic case, in which case you should seek out medical attention.
Bronchitis is typically caused by a virus entering your respiratory tract. For chronic bronchitis, smoking cigarettes is usually a common cause. An acute case of bronchitis can sometimes lead to pneumonia and you should seek an evaluation from a medical professional.
If you suspect you may be suffering from bronchitis, you should visit a doctor so you can begin treatment right away. The AM/PM Cliffside Park Office is open morning to night to provide relief and high quality care. No appointment is necessary.
Symptoms of Bronchitis
As with most respiratory illnesses, there are some key signs that you may be dealing with a case of bronchitis. Some of the common symptoms of bronchitis include:
- Cough
- Discolored and thick mucus
- Feeling weak and tired
- Fever and chills
- Shortness of breath
- General chest discomfort
- Sore throat
Bronchitis Treatment and Prevention
Our medical providers can help you by prescribing medications to help you with the symptoms of bronchitis and thereby help you with this illness. Getting lots of rest and drinking lots of clear liquids will generally make bronchitis go away after several days.
To reduce your risk of bronchitis, there are some things you can do (or avoid doing). Here are just a few:
- Avoid cigarette smoke
- Get vaccinated. Many bronchitis cases are the result of influenza. A yearly flu shot can help protect you.
- Wash your hands
- Wear a surgical mask
If you are sick with bronchitis, you shouldn’t have to make an appointment and wait to start getting treatment. AM/PM Walk-In Urgent Care in Cliffside Park encourages walk-ins and will do our best to diagnose your illness and get you treatment right away.