Do I Have Bronchitis?

If you are experiencing a hacking or barking cough, it might be bronchitis. Upper respiratory infections are common at this time of year, so if you aren’t feeling well, it is important to get diagnosed accurately so you can treat your symptoms and start feeling better.

Upper respiratory infections like bronchitis and pneumonia can make you feel pretty crummy, so remember that our AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail team is always here for you to help you feel better. Check out our latest blog post all about the difference between bronchitis and pneumonia below.

What Part of the Body Does Bronchitis Affect?

If you contract a bronchitis infection, you can expect to develop a barking cough and chest tightness or discomfort. This is due to the fact that bronchitis settles into your bronchial tubes. These tubes help carry air in and out of your lungs and when they get infected, they can swell up and make it harder to breathe normally.

Bronchitis can also be acute, which means it was caused by an infection of some sort, or it can be chronic. Chronic bronchitis often occurs due to some sort of history of long-term smoking or exposure to air pollution.

Typical Symptoms of Bronchitis

  • Deep cough
  • Fatigue
  • Chest pressure
  • Headache
  • Difficulty breathing

Can Bronchitis Turn Into Pneumonia?

Even though most bronchitis infections are only moderate and never become serious infections, there is always the chance that the infection will spread and turn into pneumonia. Pneumonia occurs when an infection spreads to your alveoli, which are the little sacs that help exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide into your blood.

If your alveoli fill with fluid, it can cause shortness of breath and trouble breathing. Pneumonia can also make you feel worse overall and cause full body chills and a fever. Pneumonia can turn severe really quickly, so it is important to keep an eye on your symptoms and seek medical assistance if you experience respiratory distress or a high-grade fever.

Signs of Pneumonia

  • Deep cough
  • Production of mucus
  • Body aches or chills
  • Shortness of breath
  • Clammy skin or sweating

Are you feeling unwell? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail for a quick visit today.