At Aslan Health, we know how discouraging it can feel to have a lingering cough that just won’t go away. One common reason for this is bronchitis, an inflammation of the airways in your lungs. By learning more about the signs, symptoms, causes, and prevention of bronchitis, you can take steps to protect your health and know when to seek care at our walk-in clinic in St. Cloud.
What is Bronchitis?
Bronchitis happens when the bronchial tubes—the passages that carry air to your lungs—become inflamed and swollen. This leads to excess mucus production, coughing, and difficulty breathing.
There are two main types:
- Acute bronchitis: Often follows a cold, flu, or viral infection. Symptoms usually last a couple of weeks.
- Chronic bronchitis: A long-term condition, usually caused by smoking or repeated lung irritation.
Signs and Symptoms
Bronchitis can feel different for each person, but common signs include:
- Persistent cough (with mucus that may be clear, yellow, or green)
- Wheezing or rattling sounds in the chest
- Shortness of breath or tightness in the chest
- Sore throat and hoarseness
- Low-grade fever and chills (more common with acute bronchitis)
- Fatigue and body aches
- Headaches or sinus pressure from congestion
When to seek care: If your cough lasts more than three weeks, is accompanied by a fever above 100.4°F, produces blood, or causes shortness of breath, it’s important to be seen by a healthcare provider.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several things can cause or increase your risk of developing bronchitis:
Infections
- Viral infections (most common cause)
- Bacterial infections (less common, but sometimes require antibiotics)
Irritants
- Cigarette smoke (firsthand or secondhand)
- Air pollution, dust, or chemical fumes
- Workplace or environmental exposure to irritants
Other Risk Factors
- Weakened immune system (from chronic illness, stress, or poor nutrition)
- History of allergies or asthma
- Older age, when the immune system may not respond as strongly
Prevention: Protecting Your Lungs and Overall Health
The good news is, many cases of bronchitis can be prevented—or at least made less severe—through healthy choices:
- Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke: Smoking is the leading risk factor for chronic bronchitis. Quitting or avoiding exposure protects your lungs.
- Wash your hands often: Helps reduce the spread of viruses and bacteria that cause respiratory infections.
- Wear a mask if needed: Especially in dusty, smoky, or polluted environments.
- Get vaccinated: Annual flu shots and the pneumonia vaccine (when recommended) help prevent infections that can lead to bronchitis.
- Strengthen your immune system: Stay active, eat nourishing foods, drink plenty of water, and prioritize rest.
- Practice whole-person wellness: Emotional stress, poor nutrition, and lack of movement all affect the body’s ability to fight infection. Our Model of Healthy Living encourages balance in faith, relationships, work, and health so you can thrive.
Whole-Person Care at Aslan Health
At Aslan Health, our approach to bronchitis and all illnesses goes beyond treating symptoms. We care for the whole person—body, mind, and spirit.
- We provide affordable walk-in visits to evaluate your symptoms.
- Our providers listen with compassion, helping you understand whether your cough is viral, bacterial, or something else.
- We walk alongside you in your recovery—encouraging healthy lifestyle choices, prayer, and community support as part of the healing process.
As John 10:10 reminds us, Jesus came so that we may have life, and have it to the full. That includes caring for your health in ways that restore peace, strength, and hope.
✅ Key Takeaway: Bronchitis is common but can be serious if ignored. Knowing the signs, causes, and prevention strategies empowers you to protect your health. At Aslan Health, we are here to help you breathe easier—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Bronchitis FAQs
How do you know if you have bronchitis?
The most common sign of bronchitis is a persistent cough, often producing mucus that may be clear, yellow, or green. Other symptoms include chest tightness, wheezing, shortness of breath, low-grade fever, and fatigue. If your cough lasts more than three weeks, seek medical care.
Can bronchitis go away on its own?
Most cases of acute bronchitis are caused by viruses and will improve within 1–3 weeks with rest, fluids, and supportive care. Chronic bronchitis, however, is long-term and requires ongoing management. If symptoms worsen or you have trouble breathing, it’s important to see a healthcare provider.
What causes bronchitis?
Bronchitis can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or lung irritants like cigarette smoke, air pollution, and dust. People with weakened immune systems, asthma, or frequent exposure to smoke or chemicals are at higher risk. Preventive steps like handwashing, avoiding smoke, and staying current on vaccines help reduce risk.
How can I prevent bronchitis?
You can lower your risk of bronchitis by washing your hands regularly, avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke, staying away from air pollutants, and keeping your immune system strong with good nutrition, sleep, and exercise. Vaccines, such as the flu shot, also reduce the chance of respiratory infections that may lead to bronchitis.
When should I see a doctor for bronchitis?
See a doctor if your cough lasts longer than three weeks, you cough up blood, have a high fever, or experience shortness of breath. At Aslan Health in St. Cloud, we provide affordable, same-day care for bronchitis to help you recover and protect your long-term lung health.