Bronchitis is swelling and irritation in the air passages that connect the windpipe with the lungs. With acute bronchitis you usually have a cough that produces phlegm, and pain behind the breastbone when you breathe deeply or cough. Bronchitis is commonly associated with viral infections of the respiratory tract, such as colds and flu. Bacterial infections may also cause acute bronchitis. It may also occur with childhood illnesses, such as measles and whooping cough.
Attacks are most frequent during the winter and when air pollution is high.
Infants, young children, the elderly, smokers, and people with lung and heart diseases are most likely to get acute bronchitis. The doctor will examine you and ask about your symptoms. Treatment may include taking medicines and caring for yourself at home to relieve symptoms. You may need to take antibiotics if your infection is caused by bacteria and not a virus. Bronchitis develops suddenly and clears up quickly in most cases.