Bronchitis: Causes and Treatment
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which are the airways that carry air to and from the lungs. It typically occurs when the lining of the bronchial tubes becomes irritated and inflamed. Bronchitis can be acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis is a short-term condition that is often caused by a viral infection. Chronic bronchitis is a long-term condition caused by the exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke or air pollution.
Symptoms of Bronchitis
Common symptoms of bronchitis include a cough with mucus, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, and fatigue. In some cases, fever, chills, and body aches may also occur.
How Fast Can Bronchitis Go Away?
The length of time it takes for bronchitis to go away depends on the type of bronchitis and the underlying cause. Acute bronchitis usually lasts for a few days to a couple of weeks. In some cases, it may last up to three weeks. Chronic bronchitis, however, can last for several weeks to months. Treatment for both types of bronchitis can help reduce the duration of symptoms.