Acute bronchitis is a short-term inflammation of the bronchi (the airways leading from the windpipe into the lungs).
It is usually due to a viral infection, such as a common cold, that has spread from the nose, throat, or sinuses. Smokers, young children, older people, and those with an existing lung disease are particularly susceptible to bronchitis.
Symptoms of acute bronchitis typically develop over a day or two and include a hacking cough that may bring up phlegm, tightness of the chest, wheezing, headache, and mild fever. The cough may persist for several weeks after the other symptoms have disappeared.
In otherwise healthy people, acute bronchitis usually clears up by itself in a few days; over-the-counter pain relievers may help to relieve symptoms. Medical advice should be sought if symptoms persist or worsen, if other symptoms develop, or if the person already has another health problem.

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