Acute Bronchitis

Inflammation of the bronchi.
Typically follows a viral upper respiratory infection
can be caused by bacteria or viruses
Common in older adult

Risk Factors:
immunocompromise and cigarette smoking

Manifestations:
nonproductive coughs that later become productive
chest pain
moderate fever
malaise

Treatment:
A chest x-ray may be ordered to rule out pneumonia, because the presenting manifestations can be similar.
rest, increased fluid intake, stop smoking
aspirin or acetaminophen to relieve fever and malaise
antibiotics for bacterial infection
OTC expectorant cough medication i.e mucinex or delsym

Book info:
The diagnosis of acute bronchitis typically is based on the history and clinical presentation. A chest x-ray may be ordered to rule out pneumonia, because the presenting manifestations can be similar. Other diagnostic testing and hospitalization are rarely indicated. Treatment is symptomatic and includes rest, increased fluid intake, and the use of aspirin or acetaminophen to relieve fever and malaise. Many physicians prescribe a broad-spectrum antibiotic such as erythromycin or penicillin, because approximately 50% of acute bronchitis is bacterial in origin. An expectorant cough medication is recommended for use during the day and a cough suppressant for night to facilitate rest.