text: Bronchitis is a respiratory disease in which the mucus membrane in the lungs’ bronchial passages becomes inflamed. There are two forms of bronchitis: acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis is less serious and typically lasts from one to three weeks, while chronic bronchitis is a more serious form and usually lasts at least three months of the year for two years in a row.
  Symptoms of Bronchitis
  - Shortness of breath
  - Swelling or inflammation of the bronchi
  - Fever and chills
  - Runny nose
  - Production of mucus
  Bronchitis is typically caused by a virus and is very common in the winter months. Exposure to smoke, chemicals and air pollution can often lead to acute bronchitis. It can also be spread from person to person whenever someone coughs, sneezes or even talks. If any of the liquid droplets containing any of the bacteria or virus particles are spread through the air and onto any objects, the chances of catching the virus increase dramatically. Chronic bronchitis is most common among cigarette smokers.
  How to Treat Bronchitis
  - If you smoke, stop. If you don’t smoke, avoid being exposed to any smoke from others
  - Drink plenty of fluids
  - Avoid caffeine and alcohol
  - Get enough rest so your body has enough energy to fight the virus
  - Use nonprescription medicine, such as aspirin or ibuprofen
  - Breath in moist air from a hot shower, a sink filled with hot water, or a humidifier
  - If infected with chronic bronchitis, seek medical attention immediately (FastMed Urgent Care Clinic Locations)
  Daniel Zoeteman, M.D.
  Regional Medical Director
  Fast Med Urgent Care
  FastMed is a leading provider of high-quality, convenient, affordable, and compassionate healthcare in 34 counties across North Carolina. FastMed serves both urban and rural communities across the state with a wide range of care options, including preventive, telemedicine, occupational health, and primary and urgent care. FastMed is one of the few urgent care providers in the nation that has earned The Joint Commission’s coveted Gold Seal of Approval® for quality, safety, and infection control in ambulatory healthcare. For more information, visit www.fastmed.com.