How Long is Bronchitis Contagious
As we all know, bronchitis is contagious. Therefore, it is equally essential to know how long is bronchitis contagious? This article will tell you more on bronchitis, its contagious period, etc.
Bronchitis is a respiratory disease caused when the bronchi or the branches of the trachea get inflamed due to virus or bacteria. The signs and symptoms of bronchitis are similar to that of common cold. Bronchitis is a type of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and quite common, which can affect people of any age group. Lee us know more on bronchitis.
What is Bronchitis?
As the inner membranes of the bronchi are infected or inflamed, there is an excess secretion of mucous which can even lead to clogging of the passages. Bronchitis can be of two types; acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis is caused due to virus and bacteria. On the other hand, chronic bronchitis can develop following a prolonged inflammation or infection to the airways or the bronchi. Secondly, smoking, constant exposure to industrial pollutants, and cold air can lead to chronic bronchitis. One should also remember that second hand smoking also is a major cause of chronic bronchitis all over the world.
What are the Symptoms of Bronchitis?
The symptoms of bronchitis are similar to those of common cold. But the most important and distinguishing sign of bronchitis is expectorating cough that produces excess thick, yellowish phlegm. The other bronchitis symptoms include:
- Sore throat
- Slight Fever
- Shortness of Breath
- Wheezing
- Headache
- Cough followed by chest pain
- Chills
- Fatigue
Is Bronchitis Contagious?
We often wonder, is bronchitis contagious? For how long? The answer to this query can be yes and no! Only the type of bronchitis caused due to viral infection is contagious, i.e., only acute bronchitis is contagious and not the chronic one. Therefore, it is extremely essential to find out the cause of bronchitis to determine whether it is contagious or not. Acute bronchitis is an air borne disease, and hence, can spread through the infected person when he sneezes, coughs or even breathes. Therefore, a healthy person cannot be prevented from contracting the disease if he is in contact with an infected person. On the contrary, chronic bronchitis is caused mainly due to smoking, and hence is not contagious.
How Long is Bronchitis Contagious?
There is no specific answer to the query as to how long is bronchitis contagious. It is considered that bronchitis is contagious as long as the symptoms are seen. It is very essential to take immediate treatment if one observes symptoms of bronchitis. If you wish to know is bronchitis contagious after taking antibiotics, then the answer is yes. Although the mucus clears and the symptoms lessen on taking antibiotics, bronchitis can be contagious until all the symptoms completely subside.
Is Bronchitis Contagious in Children?
Children and old people are found to be more susceptible to bronchitis, rather than people of other age groups. One should also remember that bronchitis in children is very common, and hence, parents should be very careful about it.
How is Bronchitis Treated?
If you observe the above symptoms or experience them frequently for a long period of time, you should immediately see the doctor. A chest X-ray is useful in confirming the presence of bronchitis in people. The doctor will prescribe antibiotics, as taking antibiotics is the most effective way of treating bronchitis. Along with medications, taking complete rest, drinking lot of fluids, and using vaporizer also helps in treating bronchitis quickly.
Read more on:
- Treatment for Chronic Bronchitis
- Natural Remedies for Bronchitis
How is Bronchitis Prevented?
As we have just seen that bronchitis is contagious, it is better to follow preventive measures to avoid it.
Vaccination is the best method of preventing bronchitis. In order to prevent chronic bronchitis, one should stay away from people suffering from bronchitis. It is also not recommended to share daily articles, food or clothes with infected individuals. On the other hand, stop smoking and exposure to industrial irritants to avoid chronic bronchitis. Read more on how to prevent bronchitis
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Once you get complete information about bronchitis, it is easier to know how long is bronchitis contagious. Remember the old saying, prevention is better than cure!
