What Can I Do About Chronic Bronchitis?

Bronchitis is usually a temporary condition that resolves within a few weeks, like a bad cold that just needs time to run its course. But if you find that your cough won’t quit, or it keeps coming back, you might be dealing with something more — chronic bronchitis.

Unfortunately, chronic bronchitis doesn’t respond to the same treatments as acute (short-term) bronchitis. Instead, you might find that the symptoms aren’t as intense, but they tend to stick around much longer.

Our doctors at Mercy Medical Urgent Care in Lake City, Florida, understand how chronic bronchitis can control your life. Working, maintaining relationships, and even completing basic chores seem impossible when you can barely catch your breath.

If you’re struggling with chronic bronchitis, we’re here to help. Here’s a complete rundown of what chronic bronchitis is and how you can treat it.

What is chronic bronchitis?

Chronic bronchitis’ symptoms rarely subside for long. The condition lasts for at least three months of the year for at least two years. Symptoms return shortly after you start to feel better. Unlike acute bronchitis, which clears up with rest and antibiotics, chronic bronchitis is an ongoing condition that permanently affects your airways, making it harder to breathe.

Chronic bronchitis often leads to a lingering cough and excess mucus production, which can make even simple tasks feel exhausting. Over time, this debilitating condition can also increase your risk for more serious lung problems, like infections or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Are you at risk for chronic bronchitis?

Chronic bronchitis usually doesn’t develop out of nowhere. A leading cause is long-term cigarette smoking. Other risk factors include:

• Secondhand smoke exposure
• Air pollution or dust in your environment
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Long-term exposure to harmful chemicals or fumes
• A history of certain lung conditions, including asthma
• Age (people over 40 are more susceptible)

You’re also more likely to develop chronic bronchitis if a close relative has it.

Does chronic bronchitis ever go away?

Technically, no. Chronic bronchitis symptoms can improve, but the condition itself doesn’t disappear. Although it’s permanent, this lasting lung condition can be managed with the right treatments and lifestyle changes. With the right care, you’ll breathe easier and feel more in control of your day-to-day life.

Breathe easier with chronic bronchitis

Living with chronic bronchitis can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Mercy Medical Urgent Care, we offer a range of treatments to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Your treatment plan may include:

• Bronchodilators to help open your airways and make breathing easier
• Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and control mucus production
• Pulmonary rehabilitation to strengthen your lungs and improve lung function
• Lifestyle changes, like quitting smoking and avoiding lung irritants

We work with you to keep your symptoms at bay. With the right treatment plan for your specific symptoms, breathing doesn’t have to be a constant struggle.

If you’re dealing with the effects of chronic bronchitis, don’t wait to seek help. Call Mercy Medical Urgent Care today at 386-758-2944 to schedule an appointment, or use our online booking tool to contact us online.