Description
Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the bronchi. The bronchi are the tubes that carry air through the lungs. Bronchitis can be acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a virus. Chronic bronchitis occurs most often in current or former smokers.
Symptoms
Cough, sputum production (usually colored), blood tinged sputum, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, fever.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A chest X-ray may be done to rule out pneumonia. Rarely a culture is done to identify the bacteria.
Tests:
X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Sputum culture
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A chest X-ray may be done to rule out pneumonia. Rarely a culture is done to identify the bacteria.
Tests:
X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Sputum culture
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice
Treatment
Main treatment is inhaled bronchodilators (albuterol, ipratropium). Other treatments may include: antibiotics, corticosteroids and/or oxygen depending on the severity and cause.