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Discover Specialized Care for Bronchitis
Bronchitis Treatment
At AllCare, our experienced bronchitis testing and treatment specialists are dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to the unique needs of individuals with bronchitis. From accurate testing to personalized treatment plans, we prioritize your well-being at every stage of your bronchitis journey.
Why It’s Important to Treat Bronchitis
Our Approach to Bronchitis Care
Bronchitis is a lung condition that occurs when the lining of your airways and lungs (bronchi) become irritated and inflamed. You may experience a dry or wet nagging cough, which may make you feel short of breath. Bronchitis can also cause a fever, chest pain, and wheezing. During the first few days, it often mimics the symptoms of the common cold. A cough from bronchitis may last several weeks to several months. Our dedicated and compassionate team of bronchitis experts is here to guide you through the bronchitis testing and treatment process.
We offer a comprehensive approach to bronchitis, offering various test and treatment options to address your specific needs and concerns. Whether you’re experiencing a constant cough or more severe symptoms of bronchitis, AllCare is here to simplify and streamline your healthcare journey by providing thorough diagnoses, personalized treatment plans, and consultations with specialists in one convenient location.
What Causes Bronchitis?
Bronchitis can be caused by many factors that irritate the lungs, including viruses, bacteria, and environmental irritants. There are two main types of bronchitis:
- Acute bronchitis can last from one to three weeks and usually goes away on its own. It’s often caused by colds or flu viruses—and like those, it can be contagious. Since most acute bronchitis cases are viral, antibiotics are not prescribed unless a bacterial infection is present.
- Chronic bronchitis is usually caused by long-term exposure to irritants that damage your lungs. Smoking is the leading cause of chronic bronchitis. Air pollution, dust, mold, and secondhand smoke can also irritate your lungs. Symptoms of chronic bronchitis may improve, but they will never fully go away. Over time, it can lead to breathing disorders like asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Early symptoms last at least three months, and a diagnosis of chronic bronchitis is made if your symptoms recur over two years.
What Are Bronchitis Symptoms?
Bronchitis symptoms can vary depending on whether the condition is acute or chronic. Here are the common symptoms associated with each type:
Acute Bronchitis Symptoms
- Persistent cough (may produce mucus)
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Chest discomfort
- Mild fever
Chronic Bronchitis Symptoms
- Persistent cough (producing mucus for at least three months)
- Excess mucus production
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Chronic fatigue
- Frequent respiratory infections
Bronchitis Treatment & Tests
Chest X-Rays
Can check for pneumonia or other conditions that may be causing your cough.
Blood tests
Can determine the level of carbon monoxide in your lungs. If there’s too much, it could mean you’re not getting enough oxygen in your blood.
Oxygen Saturation
When you come in for your visit, we will check your oxygen saturation using a noninvasive handheld device to make sure your oxygen levels are within a healthy range, which is important to determine if your blood is receiving enough oxygen.
Mucus Test
Helps to rule out diseases, like whooping cough, that may be caused by bacteria.
Lung Function Test
Breathing into a spirometer can measure lung function, as well as test for other lung conditions, including COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and asthma.
Antibiotic Treatment
For bronchitis caused by bacterial infections, we offer antibiotic treatment to help eliminate the infection and relieve your symptoms.
Bronchodilators
Are medications that help relax the muscles and widen the airways to promote better breathing. Different forms include short-acting medications that stop sudden symptoms and long-acting medications that control symptoms over time.
Who Can Benefit from Bronchitis Treatment?
Individuals of all ages who experience symptoms of bronchitis can benefit from our bronchitis treatment services. Whether you’re dealing with a constant cough or are having breathing difficulties, our experienced team is here to provide the care and support you need to find relief and recover quickly.
- Anyone with a cough that lasts over three weeks
- Those with a cough that produces bloody mucus
- Individuals with a fever over 104°F
- People who have had a cough and a low-grade fever for more than three days
- Anyone having difficulty breathing or wheezing that is getting worse
- Those who have chronic conditions like asthma, COPD, or heart disease
- Individuals experience frequent recurrences of bronchitis
- Anyone with a cough and chest pain
- People with thick, yellow-green mucus
How to Treat Bronchitis at AllCare
Getting diagnosed and treated for bronchitis is as easy as scheduling an appointment at AllCare, but you can also see a doctor at our facilities on a walk-in visit if needed. Here are a few simple steps for getting treated for bronchitis:
- Schedule Your Appointment: Contact AllCare to schedule your bronchitis treatment appointment and provide essential information about your symptoms and medical history.
- Visit AllCare: Follow our instructions for your visit and maintain physical distance to ensure a safe and comfortable experience during your bronchitis treatment.
- Receive Your Treatment Plan: Our healthcare providers will evaluate your symptoms, perform any necessary tests, and develop a personalized treatment plan that may include antibiotics, pain relief medications, or other recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bronchitis
01 What is bronchitis?
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which connect the trachea to the lungs, and it can be classified into two main types: acute and chronic. While, acute bronchitis is often caused by viral infections like the cold or flu, with symptoms resolving in weeks, chronic bronchitis is characterized by a persistent cough with mucus for at least three months over two consecutive years. Bronchitis diagnosis involves a physical exam and, if necessary, imaging tests or pulmonary function tests, while treatment may include rest, increased fluid intake, cough suppressants, bronchodilators, and antibiotics for suspected bacterial infections.
02 Is bronchitis contagious?
If your acute bronchitis is caused by a virus, like a cold or the flu, you may be contagious for a few days to a week. If it’s caused by bacteria, you should stop being contagious about 24 hours after starting an antibiotic. In either case, you should always take precautions to ensure you don’t spread any germs to others, including covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, washing your hands, and wearing a mask if you will be in close quarters for a long time.
03 How do I know if I have bronchitis or pneumonia?
Bronchitis can develop into pneumonia, but it’s rare. Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lungs, while pneumonia occurs if there is an infection in the lungs. Pneumonia is particularly dangerous for anyone over 65 and those with weakened immune systems. Common pneumonia symptoms include a cough, fever, chills, shortness of breath, and sharp chest pain that worsens when coughing or breathing deeply.
04 Can bronchitis be prevented?
Bronchitis cannot be completely prevented. However, there are some ways to reduce your risk, including:
- Quitting smoking
- Avoid inhaling secondhand smoke where possible.
- Get flu and COVID-19 vaccines before peak seasons.
- Get a pneumonia vaccine if you are age 60 or older.
- Wear a mask around chemicals that can irritate the lungs.
- Avoid using spray chemicals like paint, hairspray, and bug sprays unless you are in a well-ventilated area. You can also wear a mask to reduce your risk of exposure.
- Understanding your triggers like dust, mold, and pollen to help prevent a bronchitis attack.
05 Do you need antibiotics for bronchitis?
Most cases of bronchitis can be treated at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms. However, if your bronchitis is due to a bacterial infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional to determine whether antibiotics are necessary, as they are ineffective against viral infections.
06 Should I go to the doctor for bronchitis?
You should see a doctor for bronchitis if you have underlying health conditions, experience breathing difficulties, or if your symptoms last longer than a week. Early medical attention can help rule out more serious issues, such as pneumonia, and ensure you receive the appropriate treatment for your condition.
STATES WHERE WE SERVE PRIMARY AND URGENT CARE
Bronchitis Treatment in Georgia, Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.
At AllCare, we’re proud to deliver exceptional primary and urgent care to residents across Virginia, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Georgia. From bustling city centers to serene suburban neighborhoods, our clinics are strategically placed for your convenience and care. Experience top-tier bronchitis treatment in your community with AllCare, where your health is our priority.
Prioritize your health today: schedule your Bronchitis Exam & Treatment
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