A lingering cough could be a sign of a cold or something more serious, such as bronchitis.At West Sacramento Urgent Care, Ziad A. Ali, MD, offers an onsite X-ray and lab to quickly diagnose your condition and set you on the path to recovery with the appropriate treatment. Get the treatment you deserve today by calling the West Sacramento, California, office today or scheduling a consultation online
Bronchitis is a condition where the lining of your bronchial tubes, the airways to your lungs, swell and become inflamed.
Bronchitis causes coughing and other symptoms. You may find it hard to breathe with bronchitis. Treatment generally concentrates on opening your airways and reducing inflammation.
The most common sign of bronchitis is a cough, often with mucus. Other symptoms include:
You may also have cold-like symptoms, such as body aches or a minor headache.
Bronchitis comes in two kinds, acute and chronic. Acute is a short-term form of bronchitis, while chronic bronchitis returns over time.
Acute bronchitis is the most common type. It's usually caused by a virus and is often called a chest cold. Acute bronchitis usually goes away after a week or two.
Chronic bronchitis is less common. It creates a constant state of inflammation in your airways and results in a lingering cough. This form of bronchitis usually returns more than two years in a row.
Particular factors increase your risk of chronic bronchitis, such as:
If you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), that also raises your risk of getting chronic bronchitis.
Your provider at West Sacramento Urgent Care takes a thorough medical history. They perform a physical exam and listen to your lungs for signs of infection.
You may need a chest X-ray to determine whether pneumonia or another respiratory condition is causing your cough. X-rays are available onsite at West Sacramento Urgent Care for your convenience.
Your provider recommends the appropriate treatment plan for your form of bronchitis. Your treatments may include:
The goal of your therapy is to open your airways, improve your breathing, and set you on the path to recovery. For prompt diagnosis, including onsite X-rays, call West Sacramento Urgent Care today or book a consultation online.