Highlights & Basics
- Acute bronchitis is typically associated with a cough that is worse at night or with exercise; may be associated with bronchospasm and/or excessive mucus production.
- Diagnosis is primarily clinical. Other causes for acute cough such as pneumonia, asthma, postnasal drip, or COPD should be ruled out if suspected.
- Treatment is aimed at symptom reduction until infection is resolved and bronchial damage repaired. Antibiotics are not recommended in the majority of patients.
- Complications include chronic cough and pneumonia.
Quick Reference
History & Exam
Key Factors
Other Factors
Diagnostics Tests
Treatment Options
Definition
Epidemiology
Etiology
Pathophysiology
Citations
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