Bronchitis is a contagious respiratory infection that targets the bronchial tubes, which are the main airways of the lungs. This is marked by the inflammation of the tubes, leading to persistent coughing and mucus build-up. It can be either acute, lasting for a short period, or chronic, lasting for a longer period. Acute bronchitis, which is highly prevalent, typically occurs due to a viral infection and can be contagious. If left untreated, the infection can spread from the airways to the lungs, leading to pneumonia. In this blog, we will explore the common symptoms of bronchitis that you should watch out for.
Symptoms of Bronchitis
The signs and symptoms of bronchitis usually last for a few weeks and then usually subside when given the appropriate treatment. Common symptoms include:
- Chest congestion, where the chest feels clogged
- A cough that may produce clear, white, yellow, or green mucus
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing or a whistling sound when breathing
Additional symptoms of bronchitis may include:
- Body aches
- Chills
- Feeling fatigued
- Low-grade fever
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
It is important to note that even after the other signs and symptoms of bronchitis (acute) have been resolved, the cough can persist for a few weeks as the bronchial tubes heal and the swelling subsides. However, if the cough lasts significantly longer than that, it may indicate another underlying problem.
On the other hand, chronic bronchitis is an essentially more serious condition often associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a progressive lung disease. It is usually caused by long-term exposure to various irritants, such as cigarette smoke. While the signs of chronic bronchitis are similar to those of acute bronchitis, individuals may also experience exacerbations or flare-ups of symptoms.
It is important to know when to seek medical attention for bronchitis. You should call your doctor if your cough:
- Lasts for more than three weeks
- Brings up thick or dark blood/mucus that thickens or darkens
- Causes chest pain
- Keeps you awake at night
- Makes it hard to speak.
Other strong symptoms of bronchitis that require contacting your doctor include:
- A foul-tasting fluid in your mouth when you cough
- A fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath.
In conclusion, recognising bronchitis symptoms and knowing when to seek medical attention is essential to ensure appropriate diagnosis and treatment, and having comprehensive health insurance can help cover medical costs during this process.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.
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