Acute Bronchitis Flashcards
(12 cards)
what is the hallmark symptom ?
Persistent cough (often worsens at night)
what are the additional symptoms?
Headache, fever, malaise, myalgia
Hoarseness & chest pain (from persistent coughing)
Dyspnea & wheezing (especially on exertion)
how does the sputum look like?
Often clear, but may be yellow/green (does not indicate bacterial infection)
what are the breath sounds in acute bronchitis
Normal breath sounds OR wheezing/crackles, typically on expiration
No signs of lung consolidation (no dullness to percussion)
how is acute bronchitis diagnosed?
Based on history and symptoms
No specific tests required unless pneumonia is suspected
when is chest x ray done?
Not routine – Only done if:
Signs of pneumonia (fever, tachypnea, crackles, or signs of consolidation)
History of chronic lung disease (COPD, asthma)
Immunocompromised patients
what is the goal of acute bronchitis treatment?
Relieve symptoms & prevent pneumonia
what are the medications given?
Cough suppressants (dextromethorphan) for persistent cough
Bronchodilators (β2-agonists, e.g., albuterol) for wheezing or dyspnea
Antibiotics: Only if bacterial infection is suspected or patient has chronic conditions (COPD, immunosuppression)
what are the medications given if acute bronchitis was caused by the flu?
Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza) if started within 48 hours of symptom onset
what is the supportive care of acute bronchitis?
Hydration (thins secretions)
Rest and proper nutrition
Humidifier to ease cough
Avoid smoking & secondhand smoke
when should you seek medical attention?
Fever >100.4°F (38°C) for more than 5 days
Difficulty breathing or worsening dyspnea Persistent cough lasting >4 weeks Hemoptysis (coughing up blood)
Worsening chest pain or signs of pneumonia
how do you prevent acute bronchitis?
Hand hygiene (reduce viral transmission)
Annual flu vaccine & pneumococcal vaccine (if indicated)
Avoid smoking and air pollutants
