Chronic Bronchitis

A cough that just won’t go away could be a sign of chronic bronchitis. If you or a family member haven’t been able to get rid of a cough, it’s time to contact Northwest Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, conveniently located in Algonquin, Illinois. Dennis Kellar, MD, Amanda Law, FPA-APRN, CNP, and their skilled team provide comprehensive care for chronic bronchitis, with therapies that include antibiotics, breathing treatment, and more. Call today or schedule a consultation online.

What is chronic bronchitis?

Bronchitis occurs when the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from your lungs, become inflamed and infected. This produces a lasting cough and other symptoms.

Short-term bronchitis is called acute while lasting bronchitis is called chronic. Chronic bronchitis is more serious. It’s one of the conditions that make up chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Chronic bronchitis causes constant inflammation in the lining of your airways. With chronic bronchitis, you typically have a cough that won’t go away after several months.

What are the symptoms of chronic bronchitis?

The most common signs of chronic bronchitis are:

• Coughing
• Excess mucus
• Trouble breathing

Your type of cough varies. You might experience a:

• Hacking cough
• Tightness
• Wheezing
• Barking cough

With bronchitis, you may also feel sore, fatigued, or have fever and chills. It’s also common for your lungs to produce mucus that’s white, clear, green, or yellow in color.

What increases my risk of chronic bronchitis?

Chronic bronchitis typically results from the same viruses and bacteria that cause colds and the flu. Other factors that may increase your risk of developing bronchitis include:

• Allergies
• Asthma
• Cigarette smoke
• Dust

Exposure to pollution and chemicals can also put you at risk.

How is chronic bronchitis diagnosed?

Your provider at Northwest Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine usually recommends one or more pulmonary function tests. These are noninvasive tests that measure air flow and lung volume.

Because chronic bronchitis shares some of the same symptoms of other respiratory problems, pulmonary function tests are needed to rule out conditions like pneumonia or emphysema. You might also need blood tests or a chest X-ray.

How is chronic bronchitis treated?

Your treatment will be tailored to the cause of your bronchitis. If a bacteria is causing your chronic bronchitis, your provider prescribes antibiotics.

If your bronchitis is related to asthma or allergies, your provider will recommend an inhaler. This device helps to open constricted airways, treating shortness of breath and allowing you to breathe more comfortably.

Although there’s no cure for chronic bronchitis, the proper treatment from Northwest Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine team may ease your symptoms. Effective treatment also halts the progression of chronic bronchitis, preventing more serious complications.

If you need prompt diagnosis and effective care for chronic bronchitis from respiratory experts, call Northwest Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine today or book a consultation online.