Breathing Easy: Recognizing Bronchitis and Asthma Symptoms and What to Do

Most of us have had a nagging cough or shortness of breath after catching a cold, but sometimes, these symptoms can be more than just a lingering effect of a virus. Bronchitis and asthma are two common conditions that affect the respiratory system, and knowing how to recognize them—and when to seek medical help—can make a world of difference. At Taylorville Family Medicine’s Bear Creek Sick Clinic, we’re here to offer our current patients walk-in access to care that’s personalized to your medical history.

Whether you’re dealing with bronchitis symptoms after a cold or managing an asthma flare-up, here’s what you need to know.

Bronchitis: Symptoms and Next Steps

Bronchitis occurs when the airways in your lungs become inflamed, often following a respiratory infection. It can be acute (short-term) or chronic, with acute cases typically following a cold or flu.

Common Symptoms of Bronchitis:

- Persistent cough (often producing mucus)

- Fatigue or tiredness

- Mild fever or chills

- Chest discomfort or tightness

- Shortness of breath, especially with activity

What to Do:

If your symptoms are mild, resting, staying hydrated, and using a humidifier can help ease discomfort. Over-the-counter cough medications may offer some relief. However, if your cough lasts more than a couple of weeks, if you experience a fever, or if shortness of breath worsens, it’s time to get checked out. At Bear Creek Sick Clinic, we can assess your symptoms, ensure it’s not a more serious infection, and provide treatment options to help you recover faster.

Asthma: Symptoms and When to Seek Help

Asthma is a chronic condition in which the airways become inflamed and narrow, leading to symptoms that may flare up periodically. For some, asthma symptoms are mild, while for others, they can be severe and even life-threatening. Asthma can be triggered by environmental factors, allergies, exercise, or respiratory infections.

Common Symptoms of Asthma:

- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

- Tightness in the chest

- Wheezing or whistling sound when breathing

- Coughing, especially at night or during exercise

What to Do:

If you know you have asthma, an inhaler or other prescribed medication can often control symptoms. However, if symptoms worsen, your regular inhaler isn’t working, or you’re experiencing increased shortness of breath, come see us. At Bear Creek Sick Clinic, our team can evaluate your current asthma management plan and make adjustments, if necessary, giving you better control over your condition.

Both bronchitis and asthma can lead to serious discomfort and complications if not properly managed. As current patients of Taylorville Family Medicine, you have the advantage of a walk-in sick clinic with access to your full medical history, allowing us to provide the most informed care possible. We can identify patterns, check for other underlying health issues, and personalize your treatment for fast, effective relief.