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Acute Bronchitis

A cough caused by acute inflammation of the bronchi usually resolves within a few weeks.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göğüs Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Acute Bronchitis?

Acute bronchitis is an acute respiratory illness arising from inflammation of the bronchi, with cough as the most prominent symptom. Viral agents (influenza, rhinovirus, coronavirus) account for more than 90% of cases.

The cough usually lasts 1–3 weeks; in some patients it may extend to 4–6 weeks. Initially dry, the cough may later become productive. Fever is generally mild or absent.

Routine antibiotic use is not recommended in acute bronchitis; however, antiviral treatment (oseltamivir) may be considered if there is a clinical picture of influenza. Most cases resolve spontaneously.

Symptoms

Dry or productive cough (the most prominent symptom)
Low-grade fever
Mild chest tightness or burning sensation
Wheezing breath
Runny nose and sore throat (may accompany)
Fatigue

Risk Factors

Smoking
Exposure to air pollution
Chronic lung disease (COPD, asthma)
Immunodeficiency
Cold weather and crowded environments

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If high fever (>38.5°C) or shortness of breath develops
  • If cough exceeds 3 weeks, pneumonic causes should be ruled out
  • If blood or rust-colored sputum is seen
  • When symptoms change in individuals with underlying chronic lung disease

Treatment Methods

01
Rest and adequate fluid intake
02
Steam inhalation and air humidification
03
Cough suppressants or mucolytic drugs when needed
04
Inhaled bronchodilators if bronchospasm is present
05
Antibiotics only when bacterial complication is suspected

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göğüs Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göğüs Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Related Health Topics

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Asthma

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Asthma is characterized by wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath attacks; with proper treatment it can be kept under control.

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

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COPD is an irreversible lung disease characterized by shortness of breath and chronic cough; quitting smoking slows its progression.

Pneumonia

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Pneumothorax

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Pneumothorax is the presence of air in the pleural space resulting in partial or complete lung collapse, classified as spontaneous (primary/secondary), traumatic, or iatrogenic, with tension pneumothorax representing a life-threatening emergency.

Bronchitis (Acute and Chronic)

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Acute bronchitis is mostly viral and resolves spontaneously, while chronic bronchitis is a smoking-related component of COPD.

Bronchiectasis

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Bronchiectasis is a chronic respiratory disease characterized by permanent, abnormal dilation of bronchi with associated destruction of muscular and elastic components of airway walls, resulting in impaired mucociliary clearance and recurrent infection.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.