Is Bronchitis Contagious And What Should You Do If You’re Exposed?
Bronchitis is a health condition that happens when there’s an inflammation of the airways in the lungs. This airway is also referred to as bronchi.
This inflammation leads to swelling and production of mucus which can result in chest discomfort, coughing, and difficulty with breathing.
Bronchitis can suddenly occur and often last a short period but where it is connected to lung irritants such as smoking, it can become a long term condition.
Many people have questions like “is bronchitis contagious” , what are bronchitis causes, what are the common bronchitis symptoms, what are common bronchitis treatments, and more.
To get answers to all these questions, you need to keep reading so you can learn more about bronchitis.
Types of Bronchitis
Bronchitis is categorized into two main types which are acute and chronic.
1. Acute Bronchitis
This type of Bronchitis is mostly caused by viral infection though it may also be caused by bacteria and sometimes develop on its own after an exposure to irritants like dust, smoke, or flames that inflame the airways.
It suddenly develops and can last up to three weeks.
It comes with a persistent cough that produces either a clear, green, or yellow mucus.
When it starts with a cold, it is often accompanied by a body ache, mild fever, tiredness, runny nose and sore throat. Some individuals may feel discomfort or chest tightness.
It can spread through sneezing, coughing, and sharing items with an already infected person.
2. Chronic Bronchitis
Unlike acute.bronchitis, chronic bronchitis occurs as a result of long-term irritation of the airways such as smoking dust, chemicals, and other air pollutants.
This condition can last up to a year with recurring symptoms depending on its severity.
Since it is not caused by germs, it can’t spread from person to person although individuals with chronic bronchitis may be vulnerable to infections like pneumonia.
Chronic bronchitis symptoms includes;
- Daily cough that may produce thick mucus mostly in the morning
- Constant chest infections
- Worsening breathing problems
- Shortness of breath
Individuals at a higher risk of bronchitis are toddlers, the aged, and persons with weak immunity
Symptoms of Bronchitis
The common bronchitis symptoms you need to watch out for include;
- Persistent cough that may produce clear, greenish, or yellowish mucus
- Chest tightness
- Shortness of breath
- A whistling or squeaky sound when breathing.
- Feeling unusually tired
- Mild fever
- Runny nose or sore throat
Victims of bronchitis can experience one or more of these symptoms.
Is Bronchitis Contagious? How It Spreads When Caused By Germs
If germs are the cause of bronchitis, it can easily spread from person to person and this can happen through:
- Direct Contact
Direct contact with someone who has bronchitis can spread germs.
This may occur when you shake hands or hug the person and then touch your nose, mouth, or eyes without washing your hands properly, allowing the germs to enter your body.
- Airborne Droplets
This spread occurs through the droplets from an infected individual. Most times, the germs are present in these droplets and can find their way (through the air or breathing) into an uninfected person
These droplets include sneezes, saliva drops from talking, and coughing.
- Contaminated Surfaces
Viruses causing bronchitis are capable of living on surfaces for hours. Having direct contact with such surfaces can place one at the risk of being infected. Surfaces can be utensils, table tops, doorknobs, and more.
Tips for Supporting Recovery from Bronchitis
Recovering from bronchitis usually takes time, especially when it is caused by a viral infection. For quick recovery, here are some helpful tips.
- Get Plenty of Rest
Getting enough rest is practically the first step towards recovery from most illnesses of which bronchitis is one.
In addition, relaxation assists your immune system to combat any infection in the body.
- Avoid Irritants
Another strategy to quick recovery from bronchitis is to stay from strong fumes, cigarette smoke,, and other air pollution that can worsen the condition and delay recovery.
- Stay Hydrated
Intake of fluids such as water, clear soups, herbal teas, and more can help thin mucus and keep the airway moist.
- Take Over-the-Counter Supplements
There are several cough suppressants that can help, but only use as directed by your pharmacy or medical experts. Avoid antibiotics except it’s prescribed by a doctor.
- Breathing Exercises
Carry out gentle breathing exercises. Deep breathing can clear off mucus and improve the lungs function.
Final Thoughts
Bronchitis can be very disturbing but in most cases, it often improves with adequate rest, good amount of fluids, and proper self care.
Knowing bronchitis causes, how it can spread, identifying the symptoms early, and taking deliberate steps to protect yourself can prevent complications.
Staying healthy requires strong hygiene habits, getting vaccinated, avoiding irritants and good nutrition to support your immune system with adequate rest.
If you become exposed, the already highlighted bronchitis treatment can be helpful but where the symptoms become severe, seek medical advice immediately for further examination and treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions people ask about bronchitis
- Is Bronchitis Contagious?
Bronchitis can be contagious if it is caused by bacteria or viruses.
- How Long Does Bronchitis Last?
Acute bronchitis can last up to three weeks while chronic bronchitis may take up to a year and flare up later.
- Can Bronchitis Turn Into Pneumonia?
Yes, especially in people with chronic lung challenges, or weak immune systems . Also untreated bronchitis can result in pneumonia.
- How Can I Prevent Bronchitis?
Avoid smoking, practice good hygiene, get vaccinated, and keep your immune system strong with a healthy living.
- When Should I See A Doctor?
You need to see a doctor. If your cough exceeds into weeks, you have a high fever, cough up blood or have difficulty breathing.
