Bacterial bronchitis is an infectious disease caused by bacteria. It can cause inflammation and irritation of the airways in the lungs, leading to coughing, mucus production, and difficulty breathing. While bacterial bronchitis is most commonly caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, other bacteria can also cause the condition.
Symptoms of Bacterial Bronchitis
The most common symptoms of bacterial bronchitis are coughing, fever, and chest pain. Coughing is usually accompanied by mucus that may be white, yellow, or green in color. The fever associated with bacterial bronchitis can range from mild to high. Other symptoms may include difficulty breathing, fatigue, and chest pain.
Causes of Bacterial Bronchitis
Bacterial bronchitis is most commonly caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, though other bacteria such as Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis can also cause the condition. Bacterial bronchitis is usually caused by inhaling respiratory droplets from someone with the infection, or by contact with contaminated surfaces.
Diagnosis of Bacterial Bronchitis
A healthcare professional will take a medical history and perform a physical exam to diagnose bacterial bronchitis. They may also order chest X-rays or a sputum culture to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment of Bacterial Bronchitis
Treatment of bacterial bronchitis typically involves antibiotics to help fight the infection. Over-the-counter medications, such as cough suppressants, may also be used to relieve symptoms. In more severe cases, inhaled medications may be prescribed to help open the airways and allow for easier breathing.