Bronchitis

Bronchitis is inflammation of the large airways (bronchi) in your lungs. It comes in two main types:

• Acute bronchitis, which often follows a viral infection (like a cold) and typically clears up in about 2–3 weeks.¹
• Chronic bronchitis, a long-term condition usually classified under chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), often associated with smoking, recurrent infections, or environmental exposures.²

• Viral infections are the most common cause of acute bronchitis — for example, cold or flu viruses.¹
• Sometimes, a secondary bacterial infection can develop.¹
• Risk factors for chronic bronchitis in South Africa include smoking, prior tuberculosis (TB), exposure to smoky indoor fuels, occupational hazards, and even snuff use in some populations.³⁴⁵

Symptoms of bronchitis can overlap with those of a cold or flu:

• Persistent cough (you may cough up clear, white, yellow, or green mucus)¹
• Chest discomfort or mild pain when coughing¹
• Shortness of breath or wheezing¹
• Sore throat, runny nose, fatigue, mild fever¹

In chronic bronchitis, symptoms may be ongoing, with a productive cough lasting for months or recurring episodes.

You should seek medical care if:

• Your cough lasts more than 3 weeks or worsens.¹
• You cough up blood or blood‐streaked mucus.¹
• You have chest pain when breathing or coughing.¹
• You feel increasingly short of breath or too unwell to carry out daily activities.¹
• You’re over 65, pregnant, immunocompromised or have a long-term condition (e.g., diabetes, heart, lung or kidney disease).¹

If breathing becomes very difficult—gasping for air, changes in skin or lips colour, or confusion—you may need urgent emergency care.

• Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, and do a physical exam, including listening to your chest.¹
• In acute cases, further testing (e.g., X-ray, oxygen saturation) is not usually needed unless there is concern for pneumonia.¹
• For suspected chronic bronchitis/COPD, spirometry (lung function testing) may be used to assess airflow limitation.⁶

Acute Bronchitis

• Most acute bronchitis cases resolve on their own without antibiotics, since they’re usually viral.¹
• Supportive care helps: rest, plenty of fluids, and simple pain relief like paracetamol or ibuprofen.¹
• Honey (in warm water or tea) can soothe the throat—but do not give honey to babies under 1 year old.¹
• Avoid irritants like cigarette smoke.¹
• Cough medicines may help, but talking with a pharmacist or doctor is best before using them.

Chronic Bronchitis / COPD

• Treatment is guided by local COPD guidelines.⁷ According to South African recommendations, inhaled bronchodilators are a mainstay, and inhaled corticosteroids may be used in those with frequent flare-ups.⁸
• Lifestyle changes are crucial: smoking cessation, reducing exposure to air pollutants, and avoiding smoky fuels.²⁷
• Pulmonary rehabilitation (exercise, breathing training) and education improve quality of life.⁸
• Antibiotics are only indicated when there’s a purulent (pus-like) sputum exacerbation, not for routine chronic symptoms.⁷

Here are things you can do to prevent acute bronchitis and protect others:

• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.¹
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue away and wash hands.¹
• Stay home when you are unwell, especially if you have a fever or persistent cough.¹
• Get vaccinated: because infections like influenza or COVID-19 can trigger bronchial inflammation, vaccinations help reduce severe illness and complications.¹⁷
• If you smoke or use tobacco (including snuff), seek help to quit or reduce. Smoking and snuff use are linked to higher risk of chronic bronchitis.³⁴

A healthy diet cannot cure bronchitis, but certain nutritional choices can support your immune system and recovery, especially if you’re ill or recovering from a flare-up.

For Prevention:

• Eat a variety of fruit and vegetables rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fibre.
• Include adequate lean protein (e.g., fish, beans, lentils, chicken) to help immune function and repair.
• Choose whole grains (brown rice, whole-wheat bread) rather than heavily processed carbohydrates.
• Limit or avoid tobacco (smoking or snuff) and reduce alcohol intake, as these can impair immunity and worsen lung inflammation.

For Symptom Relief (When Sick):

• Stay well hydrated: drink water, herbal teas, or warm broths to loosen mucus and keep your throat moist.
• Eat small, frequent, easy-to-digest meals if you’re tired or have little appetite.
• If you have throat irritation, try soft, warm foods and mild soups.
• Avoid very cold, spicy or heavily acidic foods if they irritate your throat.
• If fatigue is severe, consider adding a light protein-rich snack (e.g., yoghurt or a bean-based salad) to help maintain strength.

Speak to your healthcare team if you are considering vitamin or herbal supplements; they can advise on safety and possible interactions.

This brochure is for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide a diagnosis or treatment or replace the advice of your doctor, pharmacist, primary health care nurse or other health care provider. You are advised to discuss any questions or concerns you have with your health care provider.