What Are the Symptoms of Bronchitis?
The most common symptoms of bronchitis are:
- Runny, stuffy nose
- Low-grade fever
- Chest congestion
- Wheezing or a whistling sound while breathing
- A cough that may produce yellow or green mucus (sputum)
- Feeling run-down or tired
- Shortness of breath
How Is Bronchitis Diagnosed?
During the first few days of illness, bronchitis symptoms are similar to that of a common cold. Healthcare providers diagnose bronchitis by asking patients questions about symptoms and doing a physical examination. There aren’t tests to diagnose acute bronchitis, but your healthcare provider may test you for viral infections to rule those out. If your cough lasts for longer than typical, your healthcare provider might order a chest X-ray to look for more serious conditions like pneumonia.
Preventing Bronchitis
Avoiding lung irritants, including smoking, is important for preventing bronchitis. To help protect your lungs, wear a mask over your mouth and nose when using lung irritants such as paint, paint remover or varnish. Wash your hands often, and stay up to date on your recommended immunizations.
How Is Bronchitis Treated?
Most cases of bronchitis go away on their own. Bronchitis has to run its course over several weeks. There are ways to help make yourself more comfortable at home that your healthcare provider may suggest, including:
- Resting and getting plenty of fluids
- Drinking lots of water, which helps loosen chest congestion
- A cough suppressant and/or pain reliever, especially at bedtime
- A humidifier or steam
Antibiotics are not effective for treating viral infections, but if your doctor suspects that you have a bacterial infection, they may prescribe one.
If you have chronic lung disease, your healthcare provider may recommend additional treatments to reduce airway inflammation.
When to See Your Doctor
On average, the symptoms of acute bronchitis last only a couple of weeks. However, if you have a cough that won't go away, or if you get sick with bronchitis frequently, it may be the sign of a more serious disease and you should visit your doctor. Here are some questions to ask your doctor about bronchitis:
- Am I contagious? For how long?
- Do I need to get a chest X-ray? (Most of the time, the answer is "No.")
- Should I be concerned about having a fever?
- Should I take over-the-counter cough and cold product?
- What are the side-effects of the medications?
- When will I be able to resume my normal activities?
Frequently Asked Questions about Bronchitis:
Reviewed and approved by the American Lung Association Scientific and Medical Editorial Review Panel.
Page last updated: October 24, 2025
