Bronchitis Treatment in New Jersey
Dealing with a sickness like bronchitis can make you feel uncomfortable and unwell. Since there are many illnesses that can leave you coughing and feverish, it can be difficult to know when this condition is the culprit. Find treatment near you in northern New Jersey from the experienced internal medicine team at Bergen Medical Associates. Learn more about bronchitis and potential treatment options.
What Is Bronchitis?
Bronchitis is a common disease that affects the respiratory system. It can create complications and disrupt your life, especially if it’s left untreated. Bronchitis causes inflammation in the lining of the bronchial tubes (bronchi), which help carry air to and from the lungs. This disease results in the airways becoming inflamed, which causes a buildup of thick mucus. The mucus must leave the body, resulting in coughing fits that lead to coughing up mucus.
There are two types of bronchitis: acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis is the most common, usually occurring after a cold or another type of respiratory infection. Acute bronchitis is also known as a chest cold and typically lasts for about a week.
Chronic bronchitis is a much more serious condition. Sufferers will deal with constant bouts of bronchitis, with consistent inflammation in the lining of the bronchial tubes. This is a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and should be evaluated by your doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of Bronchitis?
Bronchitis symptoms are similar regardless of which type you have. Symptoms include:
- Cough
- Mucus buildup
- Chest discomfort
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Slight aches and pains throughout the body
- Mild fever
When dealing with acute bronchitis, you can expect these symptoms to linger for a few weeks. Meanwhile, those with chronic bronchitis may struggle with symptoms for months at a time, with symptoms worsening at times. While a short bout of bronchitis may go away on its own, you should seek medical attention if you’re coughing up blood, have a fever over 100.4°F, are struggling to breathe, or have dealt with the symptoms for more than three weeks.
What Causes Bronchitis?
The cause of bronchitis will depend on which type the patient has. Acute bronchitis is typically associated with a virus such as the cold or flu. Because viruses can’t be treated with antibiotics, this form of bronchitis often runs its course. Conversely, chronic bronchitis is brought about by other factors, including cigarette smoking or spending consistent time in areas with pollution or toxic gases.
How Is Bronchitis Diagnosed?
Bronchitis symptoms can occur due to a virus and tend to mimic those of a virus like the cold, so it can be difficult to distinguish them right away. If you suspect something is wrong, visiting a physician at Bergen Medical Associates is an easy way to get a professional diagnosis. A doctor can perform a physical exam to listen to your breathing, allowing them to hear any abnormalities. If they need a second opinion, they may order chest X-rays or recommend further testing.
A pulmonary function test requires you to blow into a spirometer, allowing doctors to see how much air your lungs can hold and how quickly you can blow air out. A sputum test is performed on the mucus itself and can help determine if you have an allergy you may not know about.
What Are Bronchitis Treatment Options?
As far as treatments go, acute bronchitis will often be left alone as it will clear up on its own. However, if symptoms are causing pain or interfering with your life, doctors may recommend cough medicine. If it is determined that you have a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. For those with COPD or those suffering from allergies or asthma, an inhaler may be recommended to help open their airways. Other options include oxygen therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation, each aimed at helping you breathe easier.
Find Bronchitis Treatment Near You in New Jersey at Bergen Medical Associates
If you’re struggling to breathe or constantly coughing, it may be a sign of something more than a common cold, like bronchitis. In northern New Jersey, patients needing bronchitis treatments can turn to the board-certified professionals at Bergen Medical Associates. Our experienced internal medicine team has made us one of the most reputable and trusted practices in the area. We also offer telehealth visits to make it easier to get your questions answered. If you would like to meet with one of our doctors, request an appointment today. We have locations in Emerson, Montvale, Northvale, Paramus, and Ridgewood, NJ, making it easy to find treatment near you.
