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Acute Bronchitis

Your healthcare provider has told you that you have acute bronchitis. Bronchitis is infection or inflammation of the bronchial tubes (airways in the lungs). Normally, air moves easily in and out of the airways. Bronchitis narrows the airways, making it harder for air to flow in and out of the lungs. This causes symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing up yellow or green mucus, and wheezing. Bronchitis can be acute or chronic. Acute means the condition comes on quickly and goes away in a short time, usually within 3 to 10 days. Chronic means a condition lasts a long time and often comes back.

Outline of human chest showing trachea and lungs. Closeup of bronchial tube showing inflammation and mucus buildup.

What causes acute bronchitis?

Acute bronchitis almost always starts as a viral respiratory infection, such as a cold or the flu. Certain factors make it more likely for a cold or flu to turn into bronchitis. These include being very young, being elderly, having a heart or lung problem, or having a weak immune system. Cigarette smoking also makes bronchitis more likely.


Diagnosing acute bronchitis


Treating acute bronchitis


  • Take medicine as directed. You may be told to take ibuprofen or other over-the-counter medicines. These help relieve inflammation in your bronchial tubes. Your healthcare provider may prescribe an inhaler to help open up the bronchial tubes. Most of the time, acute bronchitis is caused by a viral infection. Antibiotics are usually not prescribed for viral infections.


  • Make sure you get plenty of rest.


Recovery and follow-up

Follow up with your doctor as you are told. You will likely feel better in a week or two. But a dry cough can linger beyond that time. Let your doctor know if you still have symptoms (other than a dry cough) after 2 weeks, or if you’re prone to getting bronchial infections. Take steps to protect yourself from future infections. These steps include stopping smoking and avoiding tobacco smoke, washing your hands often, and getting a yearly flu shot.

When to call your healthcare provider

Call the healthcare provider if you have any of the following:


  • Symptoms that get worse, or new symptoms

  • Trouble breathing

