Acute bronchitis is most often caused by viruses. The symptoms can be very similar to a cold and many cases are caused by the same viruses.
The symptoms of acute bronchitis include:
an irritating cough: initially nothing is coughed up but later sputum is coughed up (known as a productive cough). Sputum is mucus produced by the lungs (also known as phlegm). In acute bronchitis the sputum can be clear, white, yellow or green in colour.
wheezing and shortness of breath
tightness or pain behind the breastbone (sternum) when coughing
sore throat
runny nose
a high temperature (fever)
Smokers and those with chronic lung disease are more likely to develop a bacterial infection later in the course of the condition.
Acute bronchitis can last between a week and three weeks depending on which virus has caused it. If you smoke you should try to stop. Rest and stay hydrated. You can treat treat the symptoms yourself. Paracetamol and ibuprofen will help bring down a temperature and pain. Pelargonium can be used to treat the symptoms of bronchitis and other respiratory infections.
If your cough lasts for more than three weeks or you cough up blood, have chest pain or have another significant health condition you should see your GP or call NHS 111.