Now we know what Bronchitis is and how it’s caused, the big question is: How do you get this virus or bacteria and is it contagious? Well, you can get it through close contact, such as shaking hands or touching the same surfaces, with an infected individual. Bronchitis itself isn’t contagious, but the virus or bacteria that causes it is. For example, if you have the flu and develop this respiratory condition as a result, you may be able to transmit the virus to someone else who may not develop the condition, but he or she does get the flu. It is also possible to transmit the virus to someone else even if you do not have bronchitis yourself.
Symptoms of Bronchitis
It can be difficult to distinguish bronchitis from other respiratory conditions that affect the lungs and breathing. The symptoms often resemble those of a cold, including a runny nose, sore throat, and general fatigue. However, a persistent cough lasting for five days or more is often a sign of bronchitis. When symptoms persist for more than 3 months, we speak of chronic bronchitis (or COPD). Other symptoms may include:
- Mucus in various colors such as clear, yellow, white, or green
- Low-grade to no fever
- Chest discomfort or soreness when coughing
- Chronic tiredness
- Whistling or wheezing during breathing
- Chest rattling sensation
- Chills
Treatment Options
A healthcare provider can diagnose bronchitis based on an individual’s medical history and symptoms. They will listen to the lungs for signs of congestion and assess breathing. They may also test for viral infections such as the flu or COVID-19. Other diagnostic tests that may be conducted include nasal swabbing, chest x-ray, blood tests, and pulmonary function tests.
Acute bronchitis is typically not treated with medications. If an individual has the flu and the symptoms appear within the past two days, an antiviral medication may be prescribed to help speed up recovery. Antibiotics are not typically helpful in the treatment of bronchitis as it is usually caused by a virus and not bacteria. Antibiotics may even cause additional discomfort. In case your professional healthcare provider does want to treat it, options include:
- Antiviral medication
- Bronchodilators
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Cough suppressants
- Antibiotics
- COPD/asthma treatment
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