Bronchitis

Is it just a cold, or could you have bronchitis? Find out and get the appropriate care by scheduling an appointment today at NAG Clinics, with a location in Pasadena and Texas City, Texas. The team at NAG Clinics is knowledgeable and compassionate, and will help you get back to feeling your best in no time. Schedule an appointment online or over the phone today.

Bronchitis Q & A

What is bronchitis?

Bronchitis is a respiratory condition during which the lining of your bronchial tubes become inflamed. The bronchial tubes move air to and from your lungs, and when they become inflamed, you develop a cough with thickened mucus. Bronchitis ranges in degrees of severity, and it may be acute or chronic.

Acute bronchitis is a type of temporary bronchitis that develops from a cold or another respiratory infection. Chronic bronchitis is a constant or continuous inflammation.

To qualify as having chronic bronchitis, you must have bouts of it occurring for at least three months straight over a period of two years. This type of bronchitis, which is the more serious of the two, often results from smoking.

What are the symptoms of bronchitis?

If you have bronchitis, you may experience a range of symptoms, depending on its severity and its progression. These various symptoms include:

Coughing

Mucus that is clear, white, yellowish gray, green, or occasionally streaked with blood

Shortness of breath

Chest pain

Fatigue

Low fever

Slight chills

A headache

Body aches

What causes bronchitis?

Bronchitis can be caused by a few different things. Smoking frequently leads to chronic bronchitis. Sometimes, chronic bronchitis is also caused by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD.

Other causes of bronchitis include viruses, air pollution, dust exposure, and toxic substance exposure. In addition, you’re at a higher risk for bronchitis if:

• You frequently experience heartburn or acid reflux
• You have a compromised immune system, including from age (young and old)
• You’re exposed to airborne irritants at work

When should I see a doctor about my bronchitis?

See a doctor about your bronchitis if:

1. It’s keeping you up at night
2. You’re wheezing or have shortness of breath
3. It lasts longer than three weeks
4. You’re coughing up blood or discolored mucus
5. You have a fever at or above 100.4℉

To determine if you have bronchitis, your doctor will take chest X-rays, test your mucus, and perform a pulmonary function test.

If you’re suffering from acute or chronic bronchitis, the team at NAG Clinics can help you. To schedule an appointment at either location for diagnosis and expert treatment, call or use the online booking tool today.