Bronchitis Symptoms: Is Bronchitis Contagious?

Bronchitis is an inflammation in the lining of the bronchial tubes. In a bronchitis patient, the inner membrane of the bronchi becomes inflamed or infected, leading to excess secretion of mucous. Very often, bronchitis follows a respiratory infection such as a cold or flu.

Types of Bronchitis

Bronchitis is classified into two types, based on the causes and symptoms, namely, acute bronchitis and chronic bronchitis. Acute bronchitis can be due to infection by pathogens and breathing in allergens (air pollutants and irritating smoke). It is estimated that about 50 percent cases of acute bronchitis are due to bacterial or viral infection. As the name suggests, acute bronchitis usually lasts for a few days or weeks.

Chronic bronchitis, on the other hand, is a type of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), characterized by chronic inflammation of the bronchi. Usually, it is caused due to inhalation of irritating dust, fumes and smoke, and is often associated with bronchial asthma. The major cause of chronic bronchitis is smoking. A patient of chronic bronchitis suffers from a persistent productive cough for more than three months.

Symptoms of Bronchitis

Initial sign of acute bronchitis is a dry, hacking cough that later progresses to expectorating cough producing a thick, yellowish or grayish phlegm. When these symptoms become persistent for more than three months, it is diagnosed as chronic bronchitis. In case of acute bronchitis caused by infection, the patient may show the following symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection:

• Sore throat
• Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
• Chest congestion and tightness
• Chest pain
• Wheezing
• Headache and Body ache
• Fatigue

Occasionally, the patient may suffer from a mild chill or fever. If the patient starts coughing up blood, it is advisable to seek immediate medical attention. In such a case, the doctor may recommend certain tests to diagnose related severe health problems such as lung cancer and tuberculosis (TB).

Is Bronchitis Contagious?

A common query among people is whether bronchitis can be transmitted from an infected person to another. Well! It is as contagious as common cold. Since, acute bronchitis is caused due to lung infection, it may spread from one infected person to another through direct or indirect contact. Chances of infection is minimal, in case of acute bronchitis developed as a complication of chronic bronchitis.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Bronchitis

Bronchitis is diagnosed based on the symptoms, physical examination and medical history of the patient. The physician may conduct X-ray imaging, blood test and microbiological examination of the sputum, if necessary.

Treatment of bronchitis is necessary, as it can lead to pneumonia. Treatment of bronchitis is usually done by administering medications such as antibiotics and bronchodilators (substances that dilate the inflamed bronchi). To get relief from breathing problems, inhalers are prescribed for opening the bronchial tubes and clearing the mucous.

In addition to these medications, the doctor may recommend to drink plenty of juice for flushing out the mucous. In case of smokers, it is advisable to quit smoking as it increases the risk of infection and can even worsen the condition.