Overview
Bronchitis means inflammation of the airways in the lungs. Acute bronchitis often follows a cold or flu-like illness and usually gets better on its own. Some people also have chronic bronchitis, a long-term form linked to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
How common is it?
Acute bronchitis is very common, especially during seasons when coughs, colds, and flu are spreading.
Causes and risk factors
Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a virus. Smoke, fumes, dust, and air pollution can irritate the airways and make symptoms worse. A cough may linger even after the infection itself has started to settle.
Common risk factors
- A recent cold, flu, or other viral infection
- Smoking or secondhand smoke exposure
- Asthma or chronic lung disease
- Exposure to dust, fumes, or air pollution
- Older age or a weakened immune system
Symptoms
- A cough, with or without mucus
- Tiredness
- Chest discomfort or soreness from coughing
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- A sore throat or runny nose
- A mild fever or body aches
When to see a doctor
Seek medical advice if your cough lasts more than 3 weeks, you cough up blood, you feel short of breath, you have chest pain, you are pregnant, or you have a long-term condition such as heart, lung, kidney disease, or diabetes. Get urgent help for severe breathing trouble, blue lips, confusion, or if a baby is difficult to wake.
Diagnosis
Bronchitis is usually diagnosed from symptoms and an examination. Tests are not always needed, but a clinician may arrange a chest X-ray or other tests if pneumonia, asthma, or another cause of cough is suspected.
Treatments
Rest, fluids, and symptom relief
Rest, fluids, and paracetamol or ibuprofen can help if they are suitable for you. Honey in a warm drink may help ease a cough in adults and children over 1 year.
Inhalers or other medicines only when needed
Some people with wheeze may be offered an inhaler, especially if they have asthma or another lung condition. Over-the-counter cough and cold medicines may not suit everyone, especially young children.
Antibiotics only for selected cases
Antibiotics do not help most cases of acute bronchitis because viruses are the usual cause. They may be considered if a clinician thinks you have pneumonia, pertussis, or another bacterial infection.
Self-care and lifestyle
- Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
- Wash your hands and cover coughs and sneezes
- Use over-the-counter medicines only as directed and ask before giving them to children
- Rest and drink enough so you do not get dehydrated
Prevention
Hand hygiene, cleaner indoor air, avoiding smoke exposure, and staying up to date with vaccines such as flu and COVID-19 can reduce some infections that trigger bronchitis.
Sources and review
Last reviewed: 28 July 2026 by Living Diabetes Editorial Team. This guide was checked against current patient and professional guidance. It is educational and does not replace care from your own healthcare team.