Bronchitis treatment

Get expert medical advice from our Australian-registered doctors and health practitioners on bronchitis, available 24/7.

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How our doctors can help

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When to consult a doctor for bronchitis?

If your cough lasts longer than usual

If you have had a cough that persists for more than three weeks or keeps getting worse, it could indicate bronchitis or another underlying lung condition. A GP can assess the cause and recommend proper treatment.

If you have a fever or breathing issues

If you experience high fever, chills, shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest pain while breathing may signal a more serious infection. These symptoms require prompt medical attention to prevent complications.

If you notice unusual mucus or recurring episodes

Coughing up thick, yellow, green, or bloody mucus, or having frequent spells of bronchitis, can indicate chronic bronchitis or another respiratory problem. Consult a GP to identify and manage the underlying cause.

This guide does not replace professional care. Consult a doctor to manage your symptoms. In emergencies, call 000 or visit a hospital immediately. The content is research-backed & medically reviewed by Dr Vishnu Gopalan, Co-Founder & Chief Medical Officer at Hola.

Causes and symptoms

Bronchitis causes

Viral infections: Like the common cold, influenza (flu), or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Bacterial infections: Caused by bacteria such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae or Bordetella pertussis (whooping cough)
Environmental irritants: Air pollution, dust, fumes, and chemical exposure can damage lung tissue over time.
Weakened immune system: People suffering from asthma, COPD, or other lung diseases.

Bronchitis symptoms

Persistent cough or wheezing
Chest discomfort or shortness of breath
Fatigue, mild fever and chills
Sore throat or stuffy nose

Treatment and prevention

If bronchitis is caused by an infection, it can be contagious for 24 hours to a week. However, if bronchitis is triggered by environmental factors like smoking, pollution, or chemical exposure, it is not contagious since there is no underlying infection. Some prevention steps, with the help of a GP consultation, can include:

Get vaccinated with an annual flu shot or pneumococcal vaccine, or COVID-19 vaccination if needed.
Wash your hands frequently using soap or sanitise regularly using hand sanitiser
Avoid smoking and second-hand smoke, as smoking greatly increases the risk of chronic bronchitis.
Wear a mask in polluted environments such as dusty areas or if you are exposed to chemicals. Disinfect surfaces frequently.

Hola Health provides a fast and convenient way for you to see a doctor online in minutes, 24/7 across Australia. Much like an in-person GP clinic, our AHPRA-registered Australian online GP will conduct a comprehensive assessment to provide the best possible care, instantly.