You have a wet, hacking cough, an aching chest, and a fresh diagnosis of Bronchitis from your family doctor. You know you feel miserable, but what else does that mean? Is this a temporary illness or a sign of something bigger, like COPD?

Bronchitis 101: Acute vs. Chronic

Bronchitis comes in two varieties: acute and chronic. They both involve an inflammation in the lining of your bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from your lungs. They also have similar symptoms, including a persistent cough that brings up mucus, chest pain or discomfort, a low fever, and shortness of breath.

But while the form and symptoms are similar, the two have different causes and durations that set them apart. Acute bronchitis, sometimes called a chest cold, is usually caused by a viral infection like the flu or a cold. It is the most common form of bronchitis. Symptoms typically come on suddenly and last 10-14 days (though your cough may linger longer.)

Chronic bronchitis, on the other hand, is typically caused by cigarette smoking or exposure to airborne chemicals. It’s a serious lung condition where the bronchial tubes are constantly irritated and inflamed, leading to persistent coughing and mucus production. Symptoms can linger for months and recur frequently over at least two years.

Treatment for acute and chronic bronchitis involves relieving symptoms, reducing mucus production, and making breathing easier. Acute bronchitis typically clears up on its own with plenty of rest and fluids; chronic bronchitis is a lifelong condition that’s managed with medications and lifestyle changes.

Bronchitis or COPD? Spot the Difference

Here’s where the lines blur. Chronic bronchitis is actually a form of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a group of chronic lung diseases that get progressively worse and make breathing difficult. Think of it as a club nobody wants to join– if your cough has overstayed its welcome and brought along friends like breathlessness and frequent respiratory infections, it might be time to see a doctor.

Warding Off Acute Bronchitis: Tips & Tricks

Preventing acute bronchitis is like dodging raindrops in a downpour – tricky, but possible. Here are a few tips:

  • Wash those hands. Your mom was right. Regular hand washing is your first line of defense against germs like the ones that cause Acute Bronchitis.
  • Keep your cough close. Cough into your elbow, not your hands, to prevent spreading infectious germs.
  • Quit smoking. If cigarettes are your flame, it’s time to extinguish that relationship for your lungs’ sake.
  • Get Vaccinated. Flu shots and pneumonia vaccines can be your shields in the battle against respiratory infections.

Living With COPD: A Breath of Fresh Air

COPD doesn’t mean life stops. Here’s how to keep on keeping on:

  • Medication Management. Inhalers, bronchodilators, and steroids can be game-changers. That’s where we come in with our top-notch respiratory supplies.
  • Pulmonary Rehab. Think of it as a gym membership for your lungs. Strengthening those breathing muscles does wonders.
  • Oxygen Therapy. Sometimes, you need a bit of extra O2. Oxygen therapy gives you that extra breathing room to feel your best and stay active.
  • Stay Active. Gentle exercise can help improve endurance and lung function.

So, is bronchitis really COPD? The answer isn’t so simple, but caring for your condition can be. With our respiratory supply program, you can have quality medications and supplies delivered right to your door each month to make breathing even easier. From nebulizers and masks to leading medications, we can supply the tools you need to combat that cough and control your symptoms. Contact our team to learn more.