Acute bronchitis

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Acute bronchitis is a self-limiting lower respiratory tract infection characterized by inflammation of the bronchi. Acute bronchitis usually follows an upper respiratory tract infection.

Causes

  • Caused by a virus in more than 90% of cases
  • Bacteria
  • Environmental factors

Signs and symptoms

  • Cough with or without sputum
  • Runny nose
  • Chest pain
  • Headache
  • Malaise
  • Fever (uncommon)

Differential diagnosis

  • Bronchiolitis
  • Pneumonia

Investigations

  • Clinical findings
  • Auscultatory (wheezing, rhonchi, coarse crackles)

Non-pharmacological treatment

  • Adequate hydration
  • Rest

Pharmacological treatment

  • Antibiotics are not indicated except the patient is at risk of secondary infection
  • Smokers
  • Elderly patients
  • Patients with lung disease 
  • NSAIDs for symptomatic relief

Prevention

  • Smoking and other lung irritants
  • Frequent hand washing may also be protective
  • Haemophilus influenzae vaccine