Bronchitis Treatment Doctor Q&A

No, acute bronchitis does not come back every year but usually lasts for 2-3 weeks. However, if symptoms persist longer than 3-4 weeks, you may be classified as having chronic bronchitis, which can return for multiple years in a row. Bronchitis can result from a cold or flu virus, or exposure to substances that irritate the lungs (e.g., pollution, smoke). It is this long-term irritation of the lungs that may lead to developing chronic bronchitis. Symptoms include:

• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness or discomfort
• Fatigue
• Coughing up mucus 

If you suspect that you may have bronchitis, be sure to get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help relieve aches and pains (e.g., Tylenol, DayQuil/NyQuil). Lastly, using a humidifier will also help expand the inflamed airways and expel mucus. Be sure to follow all instructions on any medication you consume and notify your doctor of any questions or concerns you may have.

Bronchitis is an infection that involves the inflammation of the lining of the airways. Therefore, any foods that can increase inflammation should be avoided. A list of common foods to avoid with bronchitis include, but are not limited to:

• Caffeine
• Alcohol
• Dairy products (e.g., cheese, milk)
• Red meats
• Processed, high-fat fast foods
• Salty foods (e.g., chips)
• Sugary foods (e.g., candy)

Now with this extensive list, you may be wondering what foods are okay to consume with bronchitis. It is recommended to follow a natural diet consisting of fruits (e.g., antioxidants, such as berries), vegetables, whole grains, and nuts to reduce and/or prevent further inflammation. Certain foods may even act as natural cough suppressants (e.g., bananas). With bronchitis, you should also be drinking plenty of fluids to help clear mucus from the airways. Try mixing hot water with lemon, ginger, honey, and/or cayenne pepper (spicy). The hot water and cayenne pepper will help to further open up the airways and loosen any trapped mucus, while the honey can provide a soothing effect on the throat.

Yes, bronchitis can turn into pneumonia. However, it is important to note that acute bronchitis usually resolves within 2-3 weeks. When bronchitis persists for longer than 3-4 weeks, it is classified as chronic. If left untreated, chronic bronchitis can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia. Chronic bronchitis can damage the lungs, causing the air sacs (alveoli) within the lungs to fill up with fluid, a primary indicator of pneumonia. Therefore, if you suspect you have bronchitis, it is recommended that you seek medical treatment to avoid such complications.

Bronchitis Treatment Doctors are available at Pine Knob Urgent Care. For more information, please contact us or simply walk in! We are conveniently located at 6310 Sashabaw Rd, Suite C, Clarkston, MI 48346. We serve patients from Clarkston MI, Waterford Twp MI, Springfield MI, Pontiac MI, Auburn Hills MI, Oxford MI, and surrounding areas.