Is bronchitis contagious? Here’s what you need to know

Bronchitis can leave you with a nagging cough for weeks on end. But is it contagious? The short answer is: it depends. Understanding the types and causes of bronchitis can help you avoid getting sick and dodge that dreaded cough.

What is bronchitis, exactly?

Bronchitis is inflammation that occurs in the bronchial tubes, which are the airways to the lungs. This inflammation causes mucus production that can trigger a deep, persistent cough. Other common symptoms of bronchitis include wheezing and chest discomfort. Causes of bronchitis range from viral and bacterial infections to smoking and air pollution. The two main types of bronchitis are acute and chronic.

Acute vs. chronic bronchitis—what’s the difference?

Acute bronchitis is what most people imagine as bronchitis. It’s sometimes called a chest cold. This is a common, short-term respiratory illness that often resolves on its own in one to three weeks. Acute bronchitis typically results from viruses, such as those that cause:

• COVID-19
• The flu (influenza)
• The common cold
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection

Acute bronchitis can also be caused by bacteria, though bacterial infections only make up around 6 percent of cases.

Chronic bronchitis is a serious, long-term condition defined as having a cough with mucus for three months out of the year for at least two years. It’s a symptom of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which limits airflow through the airways and hinders breathing.

Common causes of COPD include cigarette smoking and prolonged exposure to indoor or outdoor air pollutants, such as secondhand smoke. Vaping is also thought to be associated with COPD. Nearly 75 percent of people with COPD have chronic bronchitis.

Can you catch bronchitis from someone else?

Yes and no. The airway inflammation that defines bronchitis is not contagious. The viruses and bacteria that can lead to acute bronchitis, however, can be spread when an infected person sneezes or coughs. These actions propel microscopic droplets with germs into the air, which may be inhaled through a person’s mouth or nose and into their lungs.

Acute bronchitis may also spread if you shake hands with an infected person or touch a surface they recently touched, then proceed to touch your mouth, eyes, or nose. Bronchitis-causing germs typically stop being contagious once a person’s symptoms go away. Acute viral bronchitis is generally more contagious than bacterial bronchitis, though both can be spread to others.

Chronic bronchitis, on the other hand, is not contagious. It occurs as a result of prolonged airway inflammation from factors like smoking or air pollution. Genetics and family medical history can also play a role in COPD development.

Who’s most at risk for bronchitis?

Some people have a higher risk of developing acute bronchitis than others. These high-risk groups include:

• People who smoke or vape
• Young children and older adults
• Those with asthma, allergies, heart disease, lung disease, or a condition that weakens the immune system (the body’s defense against germs and illness)

People with an elevated risk of chronic bronchitis include those who:

• Currently smoke or vape, or have done so in the past
• Have a family history of chronic bronchitis
• Are frequently exposed to pollutants such as secondhand smoke, fire, chemical fumes, or dust
• Have a history of frequent lung infections
• Have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

What are the signs and symptoms of bronchitis?

The most common signs and symptoms of bronchitis include:

• A nagging cough that may produce mucus (sputum), which can be white, clear, green, yellow, or streaked with blood
• Chest pain or tightness
• Fatigue
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• A mild fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or lower
• Headaches
• Body aches
• Runny nose

When to seek medical care for bronchitis

Many cases of acute bronchitis are mild and resolve on their own in a few weeks. But you should speak with your healthcare provider (HCP) if your symptoms concern you, or if you have a cough that:

• Persists for more than three weeks
• Produces blood
• Is accompanied by a fever of 100.5 degrees or higher
• Involves significant or worsening wheezing or shortness of breath
• Is accompanied by symptoms such as pale or discolored skin, trouble concentrating, or bluish lips or nail beds

Bronchitis chest pain vs. heart attack

Chest pain is a symptom of bronchitis as well as a heart attack. When it’s associated with bronchitis, chest pain is likely to be accompanied by symptoms such as cough and congestion. Chest pain that’s linked to cardiovascular issues may occur with other signs of a heart attack, including:

• Neck, jaw, or arm pain
• Irregular or rapid heartbeat
• Nausea
• Intense sweating
• A sensation of fullness or gas (indigestion)
• Anxiety
• Lightheadedness
• Clammy or unusually pale skin

Call 911 immediately or visit your nearest emergency department if these symptoms occur.

How is bronchitis treated?

Acute bronchitis doesn’t usually require treatment. If you visit an HCP, they may prescribe an antiviral drug or medication to help ease congestion and cough. Antibiotics will be prescribed if you have bacterial bronchitis, though this is uncommon.

Many people can manage their acute bronchitis symptoms at home with self-care measures like:

• Getting extra rest
• Drinking plenty of water
• Sipping hot beverages, such as tea with honey
• Using a humidifier or inhaling steam in a hot shower
• Sucking on throat lozenges
• Taking an over-the-counter (OTC) medication containing dextromethorphan or guaifenesin to help loosen mucus and control cough

Chronic bronchitis treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and improving breathing. A combination of approaches may be recommended, including:

• Quitting smoking or vaping
• Taking medication to widen the airways or ease inflammation (examples of such medications include bronchodilators, corticosteroids, phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors, and anticholinergic drugs)
• Oxygen therapy

Is bronchitis preventable?

Bronchitis is a common but preventable condition. You can help avoid germs and lower your risk of bronchitis and other respiratory infections by taking the following steps:

• Receive pneumonia, COVID-19, and flu vaccines as recommended by your HCP.
• Avoid airborne irritants such as secondhand smoke and chemical fumes, when possible.
• Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and warm water. If you don’t have access to a sink, carry along an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Manage asthma and allergies, if you have them, and avoid triggers (such as pollen and pet dander) when possible.
• Avoid being in close quarters with people who are sick, if you can.
• Support your immune system by eating a nutrient-rich diet and getting regular physical activity.

Your HCP may recommend other strategies to prevent bronchitis based on your risk factors and health needs.