This article covers the typical symptoms of acute bronchitis as well as less common ones and when you should see a healthcare provider.
Frequent Symptoms
A cough with or without mucus is the most common symptom of acute bronchitis. Coughing can last several weeks, with some people experiencing the symptom for up to eight weeks.
When you get a cough, you may:
Not have mucus right awayLater see yellow or green mucus come up when coughing Have pain in the chest when coughing or breathing deeplyHave wheezing or noisy breathing Have a sore throat
Other common symptoms of acute bronchitis are similar to those of a cold or the flu. Usually, these symptoms last only for a few days or up to a week. They include:
Low fever (100 degrees Fahrenheit to 101 degrees Fahrenheit)Runny or stuffy noseFatigueSore musclesChillsBack pain Headache
Rare Symptoms
Rare symptoms of acute bronchitis include:
NauseaVomitingDiarrhea
Complications
If you have lung problems—such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)—you are more likely to have complications from acute bronchitis and for it to turn into chronic bronchitis. Acute bronchitis can make your lung condition worse. For example, it can cause serious wheezing for someone who has asthma.
Possible complications from acute bronchitis include:
Pneumonia Chronic bronchitis Bleeding in the bronchi
You have a higher risk of developing pneumonia from acute bronchitis if you:
Are younger than 2 years old or older than 65Take medications that suppress your immune systemHave lung problems such as COPDHave chronic health conditions such as heart, kidney, or liver diseaseHave problems swallowing Are receiving cancer treatment Smoke Drink alcohol in excess Have limited mobility
Although acute bronchitis is more common in children, especially those less than 5 years old, it can affect all age groups. This is why it is important to pay attention to symptoms and seek medical care if you do not get better.
When to See a Healthcare Provider
In general, the symptoms of acute bronchitis should go away within two to three weeks. Usually, the illness goes away on its own. However, complications are possible.
You may need to see a healthcare provider if your:
Symptoms get worse or do not go awayCough lasts longer than two to three weeks Fever is higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit and does not go away after three days Body weight decreases without dietingSleep is disturbed for many days because of the coughing
You should also see a healthcare provider if you have frequent episodes of acute bronchitis. This may indicate that it has turned into a chronic condition, and you may need additional treatment. It can also be a sign that you have COPD or another lung condition.
You should go to the hospital and seek immediate care if you:
Cough up bloodHave serious problems breathingHave severe chest pain Pass out Have blue nails or lips
A Word From Verywell
It is possible for the symptoms of acute bronchitis to mimic other lung diseases in some cases. This is why it is important to talk to your healthcare provider and discuss all the symptoms you are experiencing. You should not feel embarrassed about any of your symptoms because healthcare providers are used to treating them.
Most acute bronchitis cases can be treated at home and do not require hospitalization. You may be able to treat this condition with over-the-counter medications and home remedies. In general, the prognosis is good, with most people responding well to treatment and recovering without complications. However, in rare cases, complications from bronchitis are possible.
You may be wondering if your symptoms indicate a COVID-19 infection or bronchitis. Ask your healthcare provider to order a test for COVID-19 and pay attention to your symptoms. In addition to a new cough, if you notice a loss of taste or smell and a high temperature, tell your healthcare provider.
