Skip to content
Urgent Care Bronchitis
Urgent Care Bronchitis

Get Bronchitis Treatment

With our same-day appointments available online, you can speak with a board-certified primary care doctor about your bronchitis symptoms and get a treatment plan quickly and efficiently. Instead of going to your doctor in person, you can conveniently meet with a top PlushCare doctor online and get diagnosed and prescribed any necessary medication.* An infection or irritating substance, such as inhaled smoke, can cause bronchitis. Common viruses like the type of virus that causes the common cold are the most frequent causes of bronchitis. Rarely, bronchitis can also be caused by a bacterial infection.

 
Relief from discomfort and coughing Personalized plans for chronic cases Appointments available for Acute and Chronic Bronchitis*
Book an appointment
Top Online Doctors | Step 2

*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor's discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how to save up to 80% with our prescription discount card. PlushCare doctors cannot treat all cases of cough and breathing problems, as they could be signs of something that needs an in-person evaluation with physical exam, imaging tests, or emergent treatments. Our primary care physicians can conduct an initial evaluation of your symptoms but may need to refer you to a specialist or for in-person treatment. If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

circles-dark.18c7e306

Learn about bronchitis

Bronchitis is the inflammation of our larger airways called bronchi, which are part of your lower respiratory tract and carry air to and from the lungs. Due to this inflammation, the bronchial tubes produce too much mucus, causing people who have bronchitis to often cough up thickened mucus. There are two types of bronchitis:

 

  • Acute bronchitis - Acute bronchitis can be caused by an infection or irritating substance, such as inhaled smoke. Common infections that lead to bronchitis are caused by respiratory viruses, like the type of virus that causes the common cold. Very rarely, bronchitis can also be caused by a bacterial infection.

  • Chronic bronchitis - Chronic bronchitis lasts at least three months, with recurring bouts occurring for at least two consecutive years.

 

It is important to speak with a doctor for treatment as soon as possible to prevent its spread to others.

Bronchitis causes

Acute bronchitis

Usually, the main cause of acute bronchitis (chest cold) is a contagious viral infection. The virus may enter through your nose or mouth and work its way down to your throat. As the infection enters the lining of the bronchial tubes, your immune system begins to fight back. As a result, swelling occurs and the body produces mucus. You then cough in response to try and expel the irritant and mucus.

Common ways to catch a virus are from breathing in contaminated air. Spending time in close proximity to someone carrying the virus puts you at higher risk.

Chronic bronchitis

The main cause of chronic bronchitis is long-term exposure and inhalation of lung irritants.

  • Cigarette smoke is the most common cause of chronic bronchitis.

  • Air pollution and dust are common in cities with dense populations, high-volume vehicular traffic, or industries nearby.

  • Toxic gases are common in industrial workplace settings.

Bronchitis symptoms

The primary symptom of bronchitis is a cough that can last up to three weeks in length, usually following upper respiratory symptoms of sore throat & nasal congestion. According to the American Lung Association, bronchitis symptoms can include: 
Chest congestion / discomfort
Cough
Shortness of breath
Due to the inflammation, you may also have symptoms of acute bronchitis that can look like those of the common cold or flu:
Fatigue
Nasal congestion / stuffy nose
Sore throat
Low fever
Chills
Body aches

Importantly, bronchitis differs from pneumonia (which is usually caused by bacteria) in that it does not cause a high fever, fast heart rate, and fast rate of breathing (tachypnea). SIgns and symptoms of pneumonia are often much more severe than those of bronchitis.

 

If you visit a doctor's office in person, your doctor may perform some or all of the following to come to an official diagnosis:

Physical examination
Chest X-ray
Sputum tests
*Disclaimer: You should seek emergency attention immediately if you are experiencing severe or life-threatening symptoms such as difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.

How to treat bronchitis

Acute bronchitis

Typically, acute bronchitis recedes without treatment within a one to three weeks. Here are some additional treatment options that can help with the effects of coughing:

  • Over-the-counter or prescription cough medicine (cough suppressant) for relief and help with sleep

  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen for pain relief

  • Drink fluids - some people experience relief after drinking warm water with honey and lemon

Chronic bronchitis

For chronic bronchitis and ongoing cough, the treatment plan aims to improve breathing and manage symptoms with the following:

  • Quit smoking to reduce inhalation of tobacco smoke

  • Avoid exposure to air irritants

  • Medications such as inhalers to reduce the inflammation and open up the air passages in the lungs

  • Pulmonary rehabilitation, where a respiratory therapist will work with you to develop breathing techniques to help you breathe better

circles-dark.18c7e306

Bronchitis medication

As most cases of acute bronchitis are caused by viral infections, your doctor typically will not prescribe any medications. Acute bronchitis mostly goes away on its own within a few weeks. A doctor may recommend cough suppressants for relief and help with sleep. However, if your doctor suspects that the bronchitis diagnosed is due to bacterial infection, then your physician can prescribe antibiotics as treatment or refer you to in-person care for a lung exam and chest x-ray.

For patients with asthma or chronic bronchitis, your doctor may prescribe an inhaler and other medications to help you breathe better. These medications help to reduce the inflammation and open up the air passages in the lungs.

How to prevent bronchitis

There are a few steps you can take to help prevent contracting bronchitis. It is easiest to avoid viral infections by practicing good hand hygiene. Washing your hands thoroughly with soap kills and removes contagious viruses from your hands, and should be done before eating. Avoiding close contact with those who are sick, when able, can also help reduce the spread of viral infections that cause colds and bronchitis.

If you smoke tobacco products, the best way to lower your chances of developing chronic bronchitis is to quit smoking. Smoking damages the bronchial tubes and slows down the healing process.
circles-dark.18c7e306

When to see a doctor for bronchitis

In general, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), if your persistent cough does not go away within a week or is getting worse, consult a doctor about your treatment options. In addition, see a doctor right away if you exhibit these other symptoms:

 

  • Cough with bloody mucus

  • Temperature of 100.4 °F or higher

  • Shortness of breath or trouble breathing



Rarely, your bronchitis may be bacterial, in which case you will need an antibiotic prescription. A doctor can also prescribe medication for symptom management and recommend options for self-care at home. A PlushCare doctor may be able to diagnose and treat your condition online. They can write you a prescription if you qualify, and will electronically send your prescription to the pharmacy of your choice. If you need in-person testing like a lung exam or chest x-ray, they will guide you with resources and referrals to do so.  

Related conditions to bronchitis

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to a group of lung diseases that cause blockage in the lung airways, causing breathing issues. Chronic bronchitis is a type of COPD.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a lung infection most often caused by bacteria like streptococcus, which causes inflammation of the small airways called alveoli. It usually presents with symptoms including high fever & chills, shortness of breath, increased breathing rate (tachypnea), mucous-heavy cough. Although some symptoms may overlap with bronchitis. Pneumonia is usually much more severe.

Other lung infections

Some other lung diseases share similar symptoms as bronchitis include:

  • Asthma

  • Tuberculosis

  • Upper respiratory infections

  • Pulmonary fibrosis (scarring of the lungs)

 

 

Bronchitis treatment FAQs

What is the best treatment for bronchitis?

Due to its viral nature, acute bronchitis mostly goes away on its own within a few weeks. Some home remedies and over-the-counter medications (e.g. pain relievers and cough suppressants) can help to lessen the symptoms of bronchitis.

Is bronchitis contagious?

Bronchitis is contagious if caused by a viral illness, like the flu, or bacterial infection. If bronchitis is caused by environmental factors and not an infection, then bronchitis is not contagious. Since the majority of cases are contagious, it is important to take necessary precautions to prevent getting others sick.

How can I treat bronchitis at home?

Some good remedies to lessen the painful symptoms of bronchitis include drinking plenty of fluids to optimize the abilities of your immune system, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, both of which dehydrate your body, getting plenty of rest, and considering taking over-the-counter pain relievers. Some popular brands include Tylenol and Advil. These drugs reduce inflammation, lower your fever, and relieve pain. Use a humidifier in your home to reduce the intake of dry air, and cough up mucus, as this type of cough helps clear your bronchial tubes.

Does bronchitis go away by itself?

Most of the time, acute bronchitis due to viral infections go away on its own within a three weeks. However, if your persistent cough does not go away in a few days or is getting worse, consult a doctor about your treatment options. In addition, see a doctor right away if you exhibit these other symptoms:

  • Shortness of breath or trouble breathing

  • Cough with bloody mucus

  • Temperature of 100.4 °F or higher

Will bronchitis go away without antibiotics?

Because almost all cases of acute bronchitis are caused by viruses, symptoms will go away on their own and will not respond to antibiotics treatment.

Can I take over the counter meds for bronchitis?

Over-the-counter cough suppressants and expectorants can help manage bronchitis symptoms while your body fights and recovers from the infection., Our board-certified primary care physicians are available 24/7 for online consultations to help guide you towards treatment options (including any over-the-counter medications). Your doctor can also help you decide whether any diagnostic tests are needed to determine if your symptoms are caused by a viral infection, bacterial infection or some other cause.

 

3 simple steps to request treatment for bronchitis today

How It Works Step 1
Step 1

Book a bronchitis treatment appointment.

Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
How It Works Step 2
Step 2

Talk to your medical provider regarding your bronchitis symptoms.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
How It Works Step 3
Step 3

Pick up a prescription to treat bronchitis, if prescribed.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.

Bronchitis treatment pricing details

To request bronchitis treatment and get a new prescription or refill on your prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits

 

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week
  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team
  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests
  • Free memberships for your family
  • Cancel anytime

Paying with insurance

Membership

$19.99

First month free

+

Visits

Copay

Visit price with insurance

Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!

We accept these insurance plans and many more:


humanaaetnacigna logo background

 

Paying without insurance

Membership

$19.99

First month free

+

Visits

$129

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.
Book an appointment
*If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund. Please note that any medication or lab work costs are not included. Please refer to our refund policy for additional information.

Sources:

PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.

 



PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.