š« Acute Bronchitis: What You Need to Know ā Internist Geriatrician PCP Georgetown TX
- Dr. Mohammad Al Darawsha MD
- 15 hours ago
- 4 min read
Cough that just wonāt quit? You may have acute bronchitis, a common condition that causes irritation and inflammation of the airways. The good news? Itās usually short-term and treatable ā especially with the right care.
At Wellness Bay Primary Care, our team of caring professionals ā including your trusted internist, geriatrician, and PCP in Georgetown TXĀ ā is here to help you breathe easier.
š¬ļø What Is Acute Bronchitis?
Acute bronchitis happens when the bronchial tubes (the airways leading to your lungs) become inflamed ā usually after a cold, flu, or other upper respiratory infection. This inflammation leads to:
Persistent coughing
Mucus (phlegm) production
Chest discomfort
Short-term fatigue or wheezing
Itās different from chronic bronchitis, which lasts at least 3 months and recurs over time.
š What Causes Acute Bronchitis?
Viral infectionsĀ (most common cause ā like cold and flu viruses)
Bacterial infectionsĀ (less common)
Inhaled irritantsĀ (smoke, dust, chemical fumes)
Allergies or asthma triggers
At our family medical center in Georgetown TX, we help identify the cause so you donāt get unnecessary treatments like antibiotics when theyāre not needed.
š§ Pathophysiology: Whatās Happening Inside?
When a virus or irritant reaches your airways:
Your body responds with inflammation and swelling
Excess mucusĀ builds up
Your cough reflex kicks inĀ to clear the airways
This process can make you feel winded and fatigued ā even though it usually clears up in 1ā3 weeks.
š¬ Diagnosis and Investigations
Most cases are diagnosed clinicallyĀ based on your symptoms and history. But if symptoms linger or worsen, we may recommend:
Chest X-rayĀ (to rule out pneumonia)
Pulse oximetryĀ (check oxygen levels)
Sputum testĀ (rare, if concern for bacteria)
COVID-19 or flu testing
We avoid over-testing, but act quickly if your symptoms donāt follow the typical course.
š Treatment: Medical + Natural Care
Since most bronchitis cases are viral, antibiotics are usually not needed. Hereās what helps:
ā Medical Support:
InhalersĀ (if wheezing or shortness of breath)
Cough suppressantsĀ (for sleep)
Mucus thinnersĀ (like guaifenesin)
Acetaminophen or ibuprofenĀ (for fever or body aches)
šæ Home Remedies:
Warm fluidsĀ (soothe the throat, thin mucus)
Steam or humidifierĀ (relieves airway irritation)
Honey + lemon in teaĀ (calms cough naturally)
Salt water garglesĀ (for sore throat)
Weāll guide you on whatās safe based on your age, medical conditions, and medications.
š§ Lifestyle Changes That Help
š Avoid smokingĀ or secondhand smoke
š§¼ Wash hands oftenĀ to avoid viral exposure
š“ Get enough sleepĀ to support your immune system
š„ Eat nourishing foodsĀ and stay hydrated
šØ Avoid polluted airĀ and strong chemical odors
For seniors or patients with chronic illnesses, small changes can make a big difference.
ā When to See Your Internist, PCP, or Geriatrician
Make an appointment if you:
Cough for more than 3 weeks
Cough up bloody or green mucus
Have chest pain or shortness of breath
Run a fever >100.4°F for more than 3 days
Have chronic conditionsĀ like COPD or heart disease
At Wellness Bay Primary Care, we specialize in adult and senior care ā offering same-day sick visits, unrushed appointments, and a kind, listening ear.
ā Top 10 FAQs ā Acute Bronchitis
š Is bronchitis contagious?
Yes, viral bronchitis can spread like a cold ā through coughing, sneezing, or touching shared surfaces.
š Do I need antibiotics?
Usually no. Most cases are viral. Antibiotics are only used if there's a clear sign of bacterial infection.
š How long does it last?
Typically 7ā21 days. A dry cough may linger a bit longer.
š Can older adults get sicker?
Yes ā seniors with weaker immune systems or lung conditions should be seen early to prevent complications.
š Is this the same as pneumonia?
No. Pneumonia affects the lung tissue itself and often comes with more severe symptoms. Weāll check for that if needed.
š Can I go to work with bronchitis?
If youāre fever-free and feeling up to it, yes ā but rest is best. If you're coughing a lot, it's better to stay home.
š Whatās the difference between acute and chronic bronchitis?
Acute lasts a few weeks. Chronic lasts 3+ months and usually affects long-term smokers.
š Should I use a humidifier?
Yes, especially if indoor air is dry. Clean it regularly to avoid mold.
š Can bronchitis cause asthma?
Bronchitis doesnāt cause asthma but can trigger symptoms in people with asthma history.
š What if I have repeated episodes?
Weāll evaluate for chronic lung issues, allergies, or acid reflux ā and help prevent future flare-ups.
šØāāļø Weāre Here for You ā Internist Geriatrician PCP Georgetown TX
Whether you're 30 or 80, bronchitis can hit hard ā and you deserve personalized careĀ that actually helps.
š Located near Sun City in Georgetown TX, we care for adults and seniors with time, compassion, and experience.
š¬ Letās Keep You Healthy, Together
The Medicare Wellness Visit is your chance to pause, plan, and protect your future health. At Wellness Bay Primary Care, we make this visit meaningful, respectful, and centered on you.
š Visit us at 4887 Williams Dr Ste 107, Georgetown TX
š Call 512.588.7008Ā orš² Book online
Proudly, our Internal Medicine Primary Care Practice is Accepting new patients From:
Georgetown, Sun City, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Leander, Liberty Hill, Florence, Jarrell, Taylor, Hutto, Pflugerville, North Austin, Brushy Creek, Temple, Harker Heights, Bartram, Lampasas, Killeen, Lago Vista, and surrounding areas across Williamson County and North Austin TX
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