Get same-day, walk-in evaluation and treatment for bronchitis and other respiratory infections for patients of all ages (including children, adults, and seniors) without the stress of an ER visit.
Extended Hours, Same-Day Bronchitis Care.
Urgent Care for Bronchitis
Urgent Care for Bronchitis
Common Bronchitis Symptoms
Bronchitis symptoms can vary, but many people notice a cough that lingers. Common bronchitis symptoms include:
- Persistent cough (often worse at night)
- Mucus/phlegm (clear, yellow, or green)
- Chest tightness or discomfort
- Wheezing
- Mild shortness of breath
- Dry cough at times, especially early on
- Sore throat (from coughing)
- Fatigue
- Low-grade fever in some cases
- Body aches (especially when bronchitis follows a viral illness)
Consider seeking urgent care if your symptoms are worsening or you’re concerned about breathing. You should seek urgent care for bronchitis if you have:
- A cough that lasts more than 7–10 days or keeps getting worse
- Trouble breathing, wheezing, or worsening shortness of breath
- Fever that persists or returns after you started to improve
- Chest tightness or discomfort that feels significant
- Coughing up blood or rust-colored mucus
- Symptoms that disrupt sleep or daily functioning
- Higher-risk health factors, such as asthma, COPD, or being an older adult
If you have severe breathing difficulty, bluish lips or face, confusion, or severe chest pain, seek emergency care.
If you’re suffering from any life-threatening conditions such as a heart attack, stroke, head injury, severe bleeding or trauma CALL 911 immediately.
How +MEDRITE Urgent Care Evaluates Bronchitis
During your visit, a provider will review your symptoms and medical history, including whether you have asthma, whether you smoke or vape, and any recent illness exposures. A typical evaluation includes:
- Symptom review and medical history
- Lung exam (listening for wheezing or abnormal breath sounds)
- Temperature and vital signs
- Oxygen level check (pulse oximetry)
If needed, your provider may recommend testing to rule out flu or COVID or further evaluation if pneumonia is suspected. In some cases, a chest X-ray may be recommended to help distinguish bronchitis from pneumonia.
Bronchitis Treatment at +MEDRITE Urgent Care
Symptom Relief
Your provider may recommend:
- Rest, hydration, and supportive home care
- Guidance to reduce coughing and airway irritation
- Medication options for fever or discomfort when appropriate
- Advice on safe use of cough relief (including cough suppressants when appropriate for your situation)
Inhalers or Breathing Treatments (When Needed)
If you’re wheezing, experiencing airway tightness, or have asthma-related flare symptoms, your provider may recommend an inhaler or breathing treatments to help open your airways and improve comfort.
Antibiotics (Only If Appropriate)
Most cases of acute bronchitis are viral, so antibiotics aren’t often helpful. If a bacterial infection is suspected or certain risk factors are present, a provider may prescribe medications appropriate for your condition. If antibiotics are prescribed, take them exactly as directed.
Precautions to Take
Home Care Tips to Feel Better Sooner
Supportive care at home can help you recover more comfortably:
- Drink fluids to help thin mucus.
- Use a humidifier or warm steam to ease airway irritation.
- Rest and pace activity if coughing worsens with exertion.
- Avoid smoking, vaping, and secondhand smoke.
- Limit exposure to irritants such as strong fragrances or heavy air pollution.
- Stay mindful of close contact with others if you’re sick. Bronchitis caused by a viral infection can be contagious.
If your symptoms aren’t improving or your cough lasts longer than expected, urgent care can help you determine what’s going on and whether you need additional treatment.
Bronchitis FAQs
How Long Does Bronchitis Last?
Many people start to feel better within 1–2 weeks, but the cough can linger for a few weeks as the airways heal. If your cough lasts longer than expected or worsens, it’s worth getting evaluated.
What Happens If Bronchitis Is Left Untreated?
You can’t prevent every respiratory illness, but these habits can lower your risk:
- Wash your hands regularly and avoid close contact with sick individuals when possible.
- Stay up to date on recommended vaccines. (such as flu and COVID, as appropriate)
- Avoid smoking/vaping and limit secondhand smoke exposure.
- Manage asthma and allergy symptoms to reduce airway irritation.
Can Bronchitis Be Prevented?
You can’t prevent every respiratory illness, but these habits can lower your risk:
- Wash your hands regularly and avoid close contact with sick individuals when possible.
- Stay up to date on recommended vaccines. (such as flu and COVID, as appropriate)
- Avoid smoking/vaping and limit secondhand smoke exposure.
- Manage asthma and allergy symptoms to reduce airway irritation.
Why Us
Why Choose +MEDRITE Urgent Care for Bronchitis Care?
At +MEDRITE Urgent Care, you can get a same-day evaluation for cough, wheezing, chest tightness, and other bronchitis symptoms, with convenient locations and extended hours. Our providers can help rule out more serious conditions, recommend a treatment plan, and prescribe medications when appropriate. Walk-ins are welcome, and appointments are available too, so you can choose what works best for your schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bronchitis contagious?
Acute bronchitis is often caused by a viral infection, which can be contagious, especially early on. Practicing good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact when you’re sick can help reduce the spread.
How long does a bronchitis cough last?
Many people start to feel better within 1–2 weeks, but the cough can linger for a few weeks as the airways heal. If your cough lasts longer than expected or worsens, it’s worth getting evaluated.
Can bronchitis turn into pneumonia?
Bronchitis and pneumonia can share similar symptoms, but pneumonia is a distinct condition that can be more serious. If you develop worsening shortness of breath, high fever, chest pain, or feel significantly worse, urgent care can help assess whether pneumonia is a concern.
What triggers bronchitis besides a viral infection?
Besides viral illness, airway irritation can trigger bronchitis symptoms, such as smoking, vaping, air pollution, and other irritants. People with asthma may also be more sensitive to airway inflammation.
Should I work out or push through bronchitis?
It’s usually best to rest and avoid intense activity while you’re symptomatic, especially if you have a fever, shortness of breath, or chest tightness. Returning to activity gradually once symptoms improve can help prevent setbacks.
Payment Options
We accept most commercial, government, and state insurances.
Self pay?
Wide range of self pay options offered. Call now or walk in to learn about rates.
Insurance Question?
If you’re unsure we accept your plan, call your Medrite center before your visit for assistance.
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Get Relief From Bronchitis Symptoms
If your cough isn’t improving or you’re dealing with wheezing, chest tightness, or fatigue that’s slowing you down, +MEDRITE can help. Walk in when you need care, or schedule an appointment, whatever works best for your day.