Acute bronchitis
Disease Information
In-Depth
What causes acute bronchitis?
Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a virus—it often follows the common cold.
- Acute bronchitis may occur in children who suffer from allergies, chronic sinusitis, or those with enlarged tonsils and adenoids
- Acute bronchitis can also be caused by dust, allergens, strong fumes, or secondhand smoke; acute bronchitis may be the cause or result of an asthma attack.
- Pneumonia can be a complication of bronchitis
What are the symptoms of acute bronchitis?
Each child may experience symptoms differently, but common symptoms include:
- Runny nose, usually before a cough starts
- Malaise, or a general ill feeling
- Chills
- Slight fever
- Back and muscle pain
- Sore throat
What about a cough?
In the earlier stages of acute bronchitis, your child may experience a dry, non-productive cough; later on, this will become an abundant, mucus-filled cough. This coughing may even cause your child to gag or vomit.
