SERVICES

Bronchitis

Your bronchial tubes carry air to and from your lungs, so when these airways become inflamed with bronchitis, it can be difficult to focus on anything else. Led by Nichola Patton, DNP, MSN, MBA, AGACNP-BC, and Angel Cejo Vaquer, NP, NP Healthcare Group offers same-day telehealth appointments to discuss primary concerns like bronchitis, asthma, and other breathing issues. If you’re struggling with a persistent cough, mucus production, and other uncomfortable symptoms, book a bronchitis evaluation by calling the office or booking online today.



Bronchitis FAQ's

What is bronchitis, and what causes it?


The lining of your bronchial tubes can become irritated and inflamed, resulting in bronchitis. 


You’re most likely familiar with acute bronchitis, or the common chest cold. This is usually caused by a viral infection and often develops after a respiratory infection. Antibiotics generally don’t help when your bronchitis is caused by a virus.


Some other factors that can contribute to inflammation and bronchitis include:


  • Smoking
  • Secondhand smoke
  • Air pollution
  • Dust
  • Other irritants

Chronic bronchitis is a different condition and is typically associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It involves a long-term cough with mucus and requires ongoing medical management. 


What symptoms can indicate bronchitis?


Bronchitis symptoms include:


  • A cough
  • Chest discomfort
  • Producing green, white, yellow, or clear mucus
  • Fatigue
  • Sore throat
  • Mild body aches
  • A low-grade fever
  • Wheezing or shortness of breath

Acute bronchitis often improves on its own, but the cough can last for several weeks even after other symptoms have resolved. Because bronchitis symptoms can overlap with conditions such as pneumonia, asthma, COVID-19, or influenza, talk to your NP Healthcare Group provider if you have persistent or worsening symptoms.


Seek urgent medical attention for significant difficulty breathing, severe chest pain, confusion, bluish lips or face, or other severe or rapidly worsening symptoms.


How is bronchitis diagnosed and treated via telehealth?


During your virtual visit, your NP Healthcare Group provider asks about your:


  • Cough
  • Mucus production
  • Fever
  • Breathing
  • Symptom duration
  • Medical history
  • Potential exposures

Treatment for acute bronchitis typically focuses on relieving your symptoms and supporting recovery. Your practitioner may recommend:


  • Hydration
  • Rest
  • Humidified air
  • Appropriate over-the-counter medications

If your symptoms suggest pneumonia, severe asthma, or another condition requiring a physical examination, oxygen measurement, chest X-ray, or other testing, your provider may recommend in-person care.


What are the advantages of remote visits when addressing bronchitis?


Telehealth care can save you time and eliminate the need to travel to a medical office if you don’t need an in-person examination. You can also reduce exposure to others while you’re experiencing a potentially contagious respiratory illness.


Virtual visits make it that much more convenient to get medical guidance, treatment recommendations, and follow-up care. 


Schedule a telehealth evaluation for bronchitis by calling NP Healthcare Group or booking online now.