Bronchitis (acute)

Your Path

  • Bronchitis (acute)

Etiology

  • Majority of cases are viral (adeno, corona, influenza A and B, metapneumo, parainfluenza, RSV, and rhino)
  • Bacterial more common if co-existent COPD

Symptoms

  • Acute onset cough
  • Change in sputum (colored, thicker, increased volume)
  • Fever, fatigue/feeling run down
  • Not seriously ill or sob unless other co-morbid illnesses (e.g. COPD)

Physical Exam Findings

  • Sometimes fever, though not ill appearing (if no co-morbidities)
  • Sometimes scattered ronchi, but no findings of consolidation or alveolar filling
  • Can trigger wheezing, in particular if hx asthma, COPD

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