Diseases
bronchitis
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of your bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from your lungs. People who have bronchitis often cough up thickened mucus, which can be discolored. Bronchitis may be either acute or chronic.
Symptoms
- shortness of breath
- cough
- fatigue
- production of mucus (sputum)
- slight fever and chills, and chest discomfort
Causes
- acute bronchitis is usually caused by viruses, typically the same viruses that cause colds and flu (influenza). antibiotics don't kill viruses, so this type of medication isn't useful in most cases of bronchitis.
- the most common cause of chronic bronchitis is cigarette smoking. air pollution and dust.
Risk factors
- cigarette smoke.
- gastric reflux. repeated bouts of severe heartburn can irritate your throat.
- exposure to irritants on the job.
Diagnosis
- chest x-ray.
- sputum tests.
- pulmonary function test.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is bronchitis?
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of your bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from your lungs. People who have bronchitis often cough up thickened mucus, which can be discolored. Bronchitis may be either acute or chronic.
What are the symptoms of bronchitis?
shortness of breath, cough, fatigue, production of mucus (sputum), slight fever and chills, and chest discomfort
What causes bronchitis?
acute bronchitis is usually caused by viruses, typically the same viruses that cause colds and flu (influenza). antibiotics don't kill viruses, so this type of medication isn't useful in most cases of bronchitis.; the most common cause of chronic bronchitis is cigarette smoking. air pollution and dust.
Which medicines are used for bronchitis?
bromhexine, cefaclor, cefditoren, cefixime, cefpodoxime, cefuroxime, clarithromycin, enoxacin, erdosteine, fenoterol-ipratropium, gemifloxacin, guaifenesin, guaifenesin-salbutamol, ipratropium, ivy leaf extract, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, norfloxacin, ofloxacin, sparfloxacin
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