At mediDental care in Astoria, we provide personalized, patient-centered treatment for both acute and chronic bronchitis. If you’re struggling with a persistent cough, chest discomfort, or breathing issues, our experienced team, including skilled doctors who specialize in diagnosing and managing bronchitis, is here to help you recover and breathe easier. As a trusted provider of primary care in Astoria, we take a comprehensive approach to bronchitis management, with bronchitis treated through individualized care plans that may include medication, lifestyle modifications, and ongoing support tailored to your specific condition and lifestyle.
Bronchitis is the inflammation of the bronchial tubes — the air passages that carry air to your lungs. This illness is classified as one of the respiratory diseases. It can occur as an acute infection or a chronic condition and is often triggered by respiratory infections, viral infections, allergens, or environmental irritants.
Before moving to subsection 2.2, it is important to understand the symptoms of bronchitis.
Early symptoms of bronchitis can resemble those of the common cold, making it important to distinguish between the two.
Ignoring bronchitis symptoms can lead to complications such as pneumonia, chronic respiratory issues, or the progression of COPD. In most cases, bronchitis is caused by viral infections and resolves on its own within a few weeks or one to three weeks, but symptoms like a lingering cough can persist for several weeks. Timely care from a primary care provider can ease symptoms, prevent complications, and promote faster recovery. Depending on the patient's needs, other medications may also be considered as part of the treatment plan.
Our primary care team in Astoria offers comprehensive, evidence-based care for both acute and chronic bronchitis. Bronchitis is diagnosed primarily through clinical evaluation, which includes taking a detailed medical history and assessing symptoms. If a doctor suspects bronchitis, a physical exam will be performed to listen to your lungs and check your breathing. Depending on the findings, the following tests, such as chest X-rays or other diagnostic procedures, may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions. Based on the type and severity of your bronchitis, your doctor may prescribe medications such as bronchodilators or antibiotics if necessary. We combine modern diagnostics with compassionate follow-up care to ensure you heal safely and thoroughly.
When you visit mediDental care for bronchitis symptoms, your care begins with a thorough clinical evaluation. Our doctor will start by reviewing your medical history, including any previous lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or family history of respiratory conditions. During the physical examination, the doctor will listen carefully to your lungs with a stethoscope, checking for abnormal sounds like wheezing or crackles that can indicate inflammation or infection. You’ll be asked about the duration and severity of your cough, whether you’re experiencing chest pain or tightness, and if you’ve noticed any changes in your breathing. This detailed assessment helps us determine whether you’re dealing with acute bronchitis, chronic bronchitis, or another underlying disease, ensuring you receive the most appropriate care for your symptoms.
Sometimes, additional tests are needed to confirm a bronchitis diagnosis or to rule out other conditions like pneumonia. Your doctor may order a chest X-ray to look for signs of lung damage or infection that could indicate a more serious problem. If a bacterial infection is suspected, a sputum culture can help identify the specific bacteria involved, guiding the choice of antibiotics if needed. Pulmonary function tests may also be performed to measure how well your lungs are working, especially if you have chronic bronchitis or symptoms that suggest chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. These diagnostic tools help your doctor tailor your treatment plan and monitor your progress, ensuring you get the best possible care for your bronchitis and any related conditions.
The treatment approach for bronchitis depends on whether you have acute or chronic bronchitis and the underlying cause of your symptoms. For acute bronchitis, the focus is on relieving symptoms like coughing and chest tightness while your body fights off the infection. Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter cough suppressants or expectorants to help manage symptoms, and will advise you to rest and stay hydrated. If a bacterial infection is suspected, antibiotics may be prescribed. For chronic bronchitis, treatment often includes medications such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids to help open the airways and reduce inflammation. In some cases, oxygen therapy or pulmonary rehabilitation may be recommended to improve lung function and help you breathe more comfortably. Your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and helps you manage symptoms effectively.
Managing chronic bronchitis is an ongoing process that requires regular follow-up with your healthcare provider. Your doctor will schedule routine appointments to monitor your symptoms, assess your lung function, and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Keeping a symptom journal can be helpful for tracking changes in your cough, breathing, and overall health, allowing your doctor to identify patterns and respond quickly to any new concerns. By staying engaged in your care and following your doctor’s recommendations, you can better manage symptoms, slow the progression of the disease, and maintain a higher quality of life.
Your doctor may order the following tests to help diagnose bronchitis:
Depending on your diagnosis, we may recommend:
Many patients mistake bronchitis for a lingering cold, the flu, or even the common cold. The symptoms of bronchitis can initially resemble those of the common cold, making it difficult to distinguish between these illnesses without a physical exam or further tests. Here’s how to spot the difference:
|
Illness |
Duration |
Cough Type |
Fever |
Treatment |
|
Common Cold |
7–10 days |
Mild, dry |
Rare |
Rest, fluids |
|
Flu |
5–7 days |
Dry, sudden |
High |
Antivirals (if early) |
|
Bronchitis |
2–3 weeks+ |
Persistent, wet |
Mild |
May need medical care |
A lingering cough is a hallmark of bronchitis and can persist for weeks even after other symptoms of the illness resolve.
If your cough lasts more than 10 days, worsens, or affects your breathing, it’s time to schedule a visit.
Healing from bronchitis — especially chronic cases — goes beyond medication. We help you make sustainable changes that support long-term lung health. Avoiding smoking cigarettes is crucial, as it can worsen airway inflammation and hinder recovery. Lifestyle changes can also help alleviate symptoms such as body aches and runny nose.
In addition to medical treatments, several therapies can help ease bronchitis symptoms and support your recovery. Pulmonary rehabilitation is a structured program that combines education, exercise, and support to help people with chronic bronchitis improve their lung function and manage symptoms more effectively. Oxygen therapy may be recommended if you experience ongoing shortness of breath or low oxygen levels. Simple home remedies, such as drinking plenty of fluids, using a humidifier to keep the air moist, and avoiding lung irritants like tobacco smoke and air pollution, can also make a big difference in how you feel. By combining these therapies with your prescribed treatment plan, you can reduce bronchitis symptoms, protect your lungs, and breathe easier every day.
Not sure if it’s time to see a primary care doctor? These are signs you should book an appointment:
At mediDental care, our providers and doctors are available to help you get the answers and relief you need.
We pride ourselves on delivering accessible, compassionate primary care in Astoria for patients of all backgrounds, and are pleased to welcome new dental patients in Astoria.
Persistent coughs and breathing trouble shouldn’t be ignored. Let the trusted team at mediDental care provide relief and long-term support. Our primary care clinic in Astoria is here to help you feel better fast.
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Better breathing starts with better care. Trust mediDental care for your bronchitis treatment today.
Acute bronchitis caused by a virus is contagious. Chronic bronchitis is not. Proper hygiene can reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
Acute bronchitis usually clears within 2–3 weeks. Chronic bronchitis is a long-term condition that requires ongoing care.
Not always. Most acute bronchitis is viral and doesn’t require antibiotics. Doctors will decide if antibiotics or other medications should be prescribed, depending on your specific case.
Yes, if left untreated, bronchitis can develop into pneumonia. Timely care reduces this risk significantly.
For most bronchitis symptoms, your primary care doctor is the best place to start. We can assess and treat your condition efficiently.
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2246 31st St, Astoria, NY 11105