What are the first signs of acute bronchitis?

Acute bronchitis is inflammation of the larger airways, often following a viral infection such as a common cold. The cough may begin dry and later bring up clear, white or coloured mucus. You may also notice a raw chest feeling, mild fever, body aches or wheezing.

A cough and mucus alone cannot distinguish bronchitis from other chest problems. Shortness of breath, high or persistent fever, or worsening chest pain needs an assessment because other conditions can affect the lungs.

Rest, drink fluids and avoid cigarette smoke or other airway irritants. Warm drinks may soothe an irritated throat. Follow label directions for any over-the-counter medicine and check with a pharmacist if you are pregnant, have a long-term condition or take regular medicines.

A GP consultation can help assess your breathing and listen to your chest. Antibiotic treatment is not automatically useful for a viral illness; a clinician decides whether another infection or risk factor changes that plan. Nebuliser treatment is reserved for selected breathing problems after assessment.

Seek urgent care for severe shortness of breath, blue lips, confusion, coughing blood, fainting or intense chest pain. Arrange prompt review if breathing becomes harder, wheezing is new or persistent, fever is concerning, or a cough is not improving.

Does my breathing sound consistent with bronchitis? Could asthma, pneumonia or another problem explain it? Do I need an inhaled treatment, testing or follow-up?