Pulmonology

Bronchitis: Acute and Chronic Distinguished

Acute bronchitis is almost always viral; antibiotics do not shorten its course.

Healthlife Editorial Team

Medical writers

6 min read
Bronchitis: Acute and Chronic Distinguished

Cough lasting up to 3 weeks after a cold is typical. Chronic bronchitis (cough with sputum > 3 months/year for 2 years) is often part of COPD.

Warning signs

High fever, breathlessness, chest pain, or symptoms > 3 weeks warrant investigation.

Persistent cough in a smoker deserves chest imaging to exclude cancer.

#Bronchitis