Bronchitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Bronchitis can be acute or chronic.

Acute bronchitis: can result from a viral or bacterial infection. It usually starts with symptoms similar to a cold, with nasal congestion, a sore throat, and a dry cough. Over the course of several days, the cough often worsens and produces mucus. Other symptoms of acute bronchitis may include:

- Chest tightness or pain

- Wheezing

- Shortness of breath

- Low-grade fever and chills

- Fatigue

- Muscle aches

- Headache

Chronic bronchitis: is a condition in which the bronchial tubes become inflamed and produce excess mucus. It is often caused by long-term exposure to irritants, such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, or dust. Symptoms of chronic bronchitis include:

- A persistent cough that produces mucus

- Shortness of breath

- Wheezing

- Chest tightness

- Fatigue

- Weight loss

If you have any of the symptoms of bronchitis, it's important to see a doctor to determine the cause and receive treatment.