Acute bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes that primarily manifests itself through coughing with or without phlegm — usually following a cold. In the vast majority of cases, the cause is viral, and the symptoms resolve on their own. However, the cough can be persistent and linger for several weeks, even when you otherwise feel better. This is usually harmless, but should be assessed by a doctor if it continues.
Possible causes
Viral respiratory infections
The most common cause: The same viruses that trigger a cold can extend the inflammation into the bronchial tubes. Typically, a cough develops after a few days of a runny nose.
Persistent irritant cough
After an infection, the bronchial tubes often remain sensitive for a while. A dry irritant cough can therefore persist for weeks, even though the infection itself has long since passed.
Irritants such as smoke
Tobacco smoke, dust, or dry, cold air can additionally irritate the bronchial tubes, intensify the cough, and delay recovery. Smoking frequently prolongs a bronchitis cough considerably.
Typical steps at the doctor's office
- 1The doctor will listen to your lungs to distinguish between harmless bronchitis and signs of deeper involvement such as pneumonia, and will ask about duration, phlegm, and accompanying symptoms.
- 2In a typical, uncomplicated course, further tests are usually not necessary; if the cough persists, if there is high fever, or if the examination findings are abnormal, additional investigations such as an X-ray may be appropriate.
- 3Treatment is primarily supportive and focused on symptom relief. Since the cause is usually viral, antibiotics generally do not help and are only used when there are specific indications of bacterial involvement.
What you can do yourself
- Give yourself rest and allow your bronchial tubes time to recover.
- Drink plenty of fluids — this keeps mucus thin and makes it easier to cough up.
- Moist, warm air — for example after showering or using a humidifier — is experienced by many as pleasant; there is no proven benefit. Bowls of very hot water are not advisable because of the risk of scalding, especially in children.
- Avoid tobacco smoke and other irritants, as they put additional strain on the bronchial tubes and delay healing.
A doctor's visit is advisable if the cough persists for longer than about three weeks, if high fever develops, or if you feel increasingly weak. Recurrent bronchitis or coughing in the presence of pre-existing lung conditions should also be assessed by your general practitioner.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need antibiotics for bronchitis?
- Usually not. Acute bronchitis is typically caused by viruses, and antibiotics do not work against them. Only when there are specific indications of bacterial involvement will the doctor decide on their use.
- Why does the cough last so long?
- After bronchitis, the bronchial tubes often remain sensitive for weeks, so an irritant cough lingers. This is usually harmless. If it persists for an unusually long time or worsens, it is worth getting it checked out.
- Is bronchitis contagious?
- The triggering viruses can be transmitted, similar to a cold. Regular handwashing and avoiding close contact during the acute phase reduce the risk of infection.
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