Bronchitis Contagious Through the Air?
Bronchitis is a respiratory illness caused by inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which are the airways that connect the lungs to the nose and mouth. Bronchitis can be contagious, depending on the cause. Viral bronchitis is usually contagious, while bacterial bronchitis is not.
Viral bronchitis is often caused by the same viruses that cause the common cold and the flu. It is transmitted through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The droplets containing the virus can be inhaled by someone nearby, or they can land on surfaces where they can be picked up by another person.
Bacterial bronchitis, on the other hand, is not usually contagious. It is usually caused by an infection from another part of the body, such as the sinuses or the ears. It can also be caused by exposure to certain irritants, such as cigarette smoke or air pollution.
If you have bronchitis, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible, as the condition can become worse if not treated. If your bronchitis is caused by a virus, it is important to practice good hygiene and limit contact with others to prevent spreading the virus. If your bronchitis is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to help clear it up.