Bronchitis and Coughs

Bronchial tubes bring air from your nose and mouth into your lungs. When the tubes become inflamed, they can swell and normal secretions that keep lungs moist can accumulate. Breathing passages constrict, making it hard to keep lungs clear. The body responds by coughing to expel the mucus or phlegm.*

The first symptoms of bronchitis are similar to those of a cold or the flu. The primary symptom is a cough that can persist for several days to weeks. Other common symptoms include the following:

• Chills
• Fatigue
• A fever below 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit
• Muscle aches
• A runny nose
• Sneezing
• A sore throat

After a COVID-19 infection, some people may experience cough and bronchitis symptoms that last weeks to months. This is sometimes called Long COVID-19 or Post-COVID-19 Syndrome. If you’ve had COVID-19 and have new or ongoing symptoms weeks to months after your initial recovery, a MinuteClinic® provider can help.

A MinuteClinic provider can explain the different treatment options. They can also discuss the use of over-the-counter medications and other supportive treatments.

For people with Long COVID-19, a provider can create a customized treatment plan based on their symptoms and refer them to a specialist if needed.

1. You may have to answer a few questions to help us prepare for your visit prior to scheduling your appointment.

2. Check-in varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment:

   If you made your appointment online:
   Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.

   If you made your appointment in the clinic:
   Sign in at the electronic kiosk.

   If you made a MinuteClinic Virtual Care® appointment:
   To join your virtual visit, use the link in the email or text message we sent you to confirm your appointment. Please join 15 minutes before your scheduled visit time. You will need your date of birth and ZIP code to join the visit.

3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider will call your name.
4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visit, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided during the visit.
5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, receipt and educational material. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.

Acute bronchitis (also known as a chest cold) typically improves within 7 to 10 days, although the cough may linger longer. It’s most often caused by a virus but can also be triggered by irritants, such as chemicals in household cleaners, dust, fumes, smog and tobacco smoke.

Chronic bronchitis has a productive cough that lasts three months or longer. When coughs or other symptoms worsen, an acute infection might set in. This may be in addition to chronic bronchitis. Common causes of worsening symptoms include air pollution, dust, smoking and workplace exposure to toxic vapors.

The following over-the-counter medicines may help ease symptoms:

• Acetaminophen
• Expectorant cough syrups (it’s not recommended to give cough suppressants to children ages 6 years and younger*)
• Ibuprofen

Antibiotics aren’t used to treat bronchitis because they are effective only when a bacterial infection is the cause. They’re not effective against viruses or inflammation caused by irritants.

At-home relief support options may help ease symptoms, as well:

• Steam helps loosen mucus.* Consider a humidifier or breathe in steam while taking a hot bath or shower.
• Honey may act as a cough suppressant* according to limited studies.

• Regular handwashing helps prevent the spread of infection, particularly during cold and flu season.
• Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose.
• Avoid sharing cups and utensils.
• Do not smoke and avoid second-hand smoke.
• Limit exposure to airborne irritants, including dust, fumes and other pollutants. Wear a mask if necessary.
• Sleep helps your body maintain and repair itself, and it enhances immune functions.*
• A humidifier can help maintain a healthy humidity level in your home.

A MinuteClinic® provider can explain the different treatment options. They can also discuss the use of over-the-counter medications and other supportive treatments.

For people with Long COVID-19, a provider can create a customized treatment plan based on their symptoms and refer them to a specialist if needed.