Bronchitis (bronchial tube infection)
About Bronchitis (bronchial tube infection)
Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the bronchi. The bronchi are the tubes that carry air through the lungs. Bronchitis can be acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a virus. Chronic bronchitis occurs most often in current or former smokers.Symptoms
Cough, sputum production (usually colored), blood tinged sputum, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, fever.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. A chest X-ray may be done to rule out pneumonia. Rarely a culture is done to identify the bacteria.Common tests: X-ray.
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Main treatment is inhaled bronchodilators (albuterol, ipratropium). Other treatments may include: antibiotics, corticosteroids and/or oxygen depending on the severity and cause. For additional information contact the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute Health Information Center at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov or call (301)592-8573. American Lung Association: (800)586-4872 National Jewish Medical and Research Center (800)222-5864Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Pediatrics · Family Practice
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Bronchitis (bronchial tube infection).