(Cough) What are the Symptoms of Bronchitis? (Cough)

Growing up, you may have heard people refer to bronchitis as a “chest cold.” This is because bronchitis is characterized as inflammation in the lungs, which causes chest discomfort and has similar symptoms to viral illnesses. Bronchitis can be caused by smoke inhalation, bacteria, and chemical irritants, and should not be confused with other viral illnesses with similar symptoms.

Read on to learn more about the symptoms of bronchitis.

Cough

The tubes in your chest that carry air to your lungs are called bronchial tubes. When these tubes become swollen or infected, your body will then react to this inflammation with a persistent, nagging cough. If you have bronchitis, this cough can last anywhere from two to four weeks and is often accompanied by a sore throat, wheezing and shortness of breath.

Sore Throat/Wheezing

The more serious symptoms of bronchitis are usually preceded by symptoms of an upper respiratory infection, such as a sore throat and nasal congestion—which can result in shortness of breath and wheezing.

Fatigue

As your body attempts to heal itself, it will use a significant amount of your energy supply to fuel the healing process. It may also shift other regular tasks, such as repairing muscle fatigue, to a lower priority. Together, this can lead to muscle soreness and an overall lack of energy that generally accompany other bronchitis symptoms.

Fever/Chills

Your body may heat itself up in an effort to fight off the infection—which will have a harder time spreading in the warmer environment. This will cause the air around you to feel colder in comparison, which can lead to chills.

If you think you have bronchitis, take care of yourself by drinking lots of fluids, avoiding caffeine and alcohol and getting plenty of rest. If your symptoms persist for more than 20 days, or if you are experiencing more severe symptoms, such as unexplained weight loss, a fever over 100 F or blood in your mucus, stop into Sioux Falls Urgent Care to be treated by a physician.