Do you have a cold or respiratory infection that just won’t seem to go away? If so, you could have bronchitis, a respiratory illness that causes inflammation in the lining of your bronchial tubes.
There are two forms of bronchitis: acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis typically develops after a cold or other respiratory infection and typically resolves itself after a few days. Chronic bronchitis is a constant inflammation of the bronchial tubes that requires medical attention. With chronic bronchitis, you will likely have periods where your symptoms worsen.
Symptoms of acute and chronic bronchitis typically include:
- Cough
- Chest discomfort
- Production of mucus
- Shortness of breath
- Slight fever and chills
- Shortness of breath
- Bronchitis itself is not contagious, but the viruses and bacteria that can cause it are. If you are experiencing the symptoms of bronchitis, take special care to cover your mouth when you cough and sneeze and wash your hands frequently.
When to See a Doctor
- Last more than 3 weeks
- Produce discolored mucus or blood
- Prevent you from sleeping
- Are accompanied by a fever higher than 100.4℉
- Are associated with wheezing or shortness of breath
FastMed Urgent Care is able to test and treat the symptoms of bronchitis 365 days a year. We do not require appointments, so if you think you may have bronchitis, you can come see us right away. Our medical walk-in facilities are clean, modern, and fully equipped with on-site x-rays and labs. No appointment is necessary. We want to get you feeling better so that you can spend that precious time on something enjoyable. Stop in and visit us today for your medical needs.
About FastMed
FastMed is a leading provider of high-quality, convenient, affordable, and compassionate healthcare in 34 counties across North Carolina. FastMed serves both urban and rural communities across the state with a wide range of care options, including preventive, telemedicine, occupational health, and primary and urgent care. FastMed is one of the few urgent care providers in the nation that has earned The Joint Commission’s coveted Gold Seal of Approval® for quality, safety, and infection control in ambulatory healthcare. For more information, visit www.fastmed.com.