Acute Bronchitis / Upper Respiratory Infection (URI)

Acute bronchitis is a type of inflammation in the respiratory tract that affects the bronchi (air tubes) within the lungs. It is typically caused by a virus, but can also result from lung irritants such as smoke, fumes, dust, and air pollutants, or from bacteria. Acute bronchitis is marked by a sudden onset of symptoms, including a persistent cough, with or without sputum production. Rest and fluids can help alleviate symptoms, and some patients may require an inhaler to open the bronchial tubes and ease wheezing. Bacterial infections can also cause acute bronchitis. Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly or infants, may experience complications or severe cases of bronchitis. Routine use of antibiotics is not recommended as the condition is often self-limiting. Antibiotics are reserved for those at high risk for complications or with severe symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Cough
• Production of mucus (clear, white, yellow-gray, green), rarely streaked with blood
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Low fever and chills
• Swelling of the gums
• Chest discomfort

FAQs

1. What causes acute bronchitis?

   • Acute bronchitis is usually caused by viruses, but can also result from lung irritants or bacterial infections.

2. How is acute bronchitis treated?

   • Treatment includes rest, fluids, and sometimes inhalers to ease wheezing. Antibiotics are used only for high-risk patients or severe symptoms.

3. Who is at risk for complications from acute bronchitis?

   • People with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly or infants, are at higher risk for complications.

4. Can antibiotics treat acute bronchitis?

   • Antibiotics are not typically recommended as acute bronchitis is often self-limiting. They are reserved for severe cases or high-risk individuals.

Antibiotic Treatments for Acute Bronchitis:

• Amoxicillin
• Azithromycin (Z-Pak)
• Doxycycline