If you struggle to get a full breath of air or cough constantly, bronchitis may be the culprit. At Prime Pulmonary & Sleep Center, Pramil Vaghasia, MD, and Ruchi Bansal, MD, can diagnose and treat bronchitis to help you recover as quickly as possible. Call the office in Bakersfield or Delano, California, or book an appointment online today.
Bronchitis is a lung condition that occurs when the lining of bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from your lungs, gets inflamed. It can cause you to cough up thick, discolored mucus. Bronchitis can either be acute (short-lived) or chronic (ongoing).
Acute bronchitis is a common condition that may develop because of a cold. Its symptoms often go away within 7-10 days, with a lingering cough that can last several weeks.
Chronic bronchitis is the ongoing inflammation of your bronchial tubes that often occurs because of smoking. Chronic bronchitis is a condition included in the group of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPDs). It produces a cough that lasts at least three months or is ongoing
Common signs and symptoms associated with bronchitis include:
With acute bronchitis, you may experience body aches, a mild headache, or other cold symptoms. If you have chronic bronchitis, there might be times when your cough and other symptoms get worse or better.
While anybody can develop bronchitis, some factors increase your risk of experiencing it. Examples include:
When left untreated, bronchitis can lead to pneumonia in some cases. Ways to reduce your risk of developing bronchitis include not smoking, getting vaccinated for the flu, wearing a mask when exposed to workplace fumes or dust, and washing your hands often.
Your pulmonologist can diagnose bronchitis after reviewing your medical history, asking about your symptoms, and listening to your lungs as you breathe. They may recommend you undergo chest X-rays, mucus tests, and lung function testing to diagnose your condition and develop a treatment plan.
Bronchitis may get better on its own over time with plenty of rest and fluids. Your specialist may recommend the following:
Avoid smoking and other lung irritants, use a humidifier when you sleep, and wear a facemask outdoors if cold air causes shortness of breath.
Taking certain medications can reduce breathing problems and a cough associated with bronchitis. Your doctor may suggest you take prescription or over-the-counter medicines or use an inhaler.
Pulmonary rehabilitation includes breathing exercises that reduce bronchitis symptoms and allow you to breathe easier, especially during exercise.
Don’t live with a chronic cough or shortness of breath due to bronchitis when relief is within reach at Prime Pulmonary & Sleep Center. Call the nearest office or book an appointment online today.
LOCATIONS
8305 Brimhall Rd.,
Suite 1601
Bakersfield, CA 93312
1205 Garces Highway,
Suite 203
Delano, CA 93215
OFFICE HOURS
Monday: 8am - 6pm
Tuesday: 8am - 6pm
Wednesday: 8am - 6pm
Thursday: 8am - 6pm
Friday: 8am - 6pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
Sleep Studies:
Monday-Sunday 8pm- 6am