Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi—the medium- and large-sized airways connecting the trachea to the lungs—that causes a persistent cough, often accompanied by phlegm. It presents in two clinically very different forms. Acute bronchitis is a mild, self-limiting viral infection (caused by rhinoviruses, coronaviruses, or influenza viruses in 90% of cases) that generally follows a cold or the flu, lasts 1 to 3 weeks, and resolves without antibiotic treatment—antibiotics are ineffective against viral bronchitis and should not be used. Chronic bronchitis is part of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and results from prolonged exposure to irritants—primarily smoking, but also air pollution, occupational dust, or chemical fumes. Products for respiratory health and bronchitis.
Acute bronchitis differs from pneumonia—which affects the pulmonary alveoli—in that it is typically accompanied by a mild fever, auscultation reveals no areas of consolidation, and a chest X-ray is normal. Yellow or green sputum does not necessarily indicate a bacterial infection—the color of the secretions is due to white blood cells and not to the bacterial nature of the infection.
Acute bronchitis begins like a cold (runny nose, sore throat, moderate fever) and then progresses to a productive, thick cough—initially dry, then productive with mucous or mucopurulent sputum—accompanied by chest discomfort and sometimes mild shortness of breath.Respiratory congestion is often the predominant symptom. The cough may persist for 2 to 4 weeks after the infection has cleared—this is known as a “post-bronchitis cough,” which is benign and common.
It is necessary to see a doctor in the following situations:
Treatment for acute viral bronchitis is symptomatic—it aims to relieve the cough, thin secretions, and support the immune system. Drinking plenty of fluids (lukewarm water, herbal teas, broths—1.5 to 2 L/day) is the most effective way to thin bronchial mucus. Steam inhalations (without essential oils for children under 12, and without camphor- or menthol-based oils) clear the airways. English ivy (leaf extract standardized for saponins—EMA-approved for well-established use) is the best-documented herbal expectorant and bronchodilator, available in syrup or capsules. Propolis (flavonoids with antibacterial and antiviral properties) supports the defenses of the respiratory mucous membranes. Vitamin C (500–1,000 mg/day) and vitamin D3 (1,000–2,000 IU/day) support antiviral immunity.Echinacea (EMA—2- to 4-week course; contraindicated in autoimmune diseases and when taking immunosuppressants) reduces the duration of viral respiratory infections. Do not suppress a productive, wet cough with a central antitussive—encourage expectoration.
