Expertly Treating Bronchitis at Our Franklin, MA, Immediate Care Center
Where can you go when you need prompt treatment for bronchitis in Franklin, Massachusetts? The answer is clear: PhysicianOne Urgent Care. We’re a trusted immediate care provider that’s been treating patients since 2008, and we’re proud to have received certification and accreditation from the Urgent Care Association (UCA). Patients’ convenience is a top priority, and with that in mind, we remain open 365 days per year and offer online check-ins and 24/7 Virtual Visits.
Bronchitis Causes
Bronchitis occurs when the lining of the bronchial tubes—which carry air between the windpipe and the lungs—becomes inflamed. In some cases, a bacterial or viral infection can cause the inflammation—known as “acute bronchitis,” this can produce symptoms that resolve within approximately 10 days. In other cases, the inflammation can result from smoking cigarettes or being exposed to air pollution, dust, or toxic gases—referred to as “chronic bronchitis,” this causes a wet cough that lasts for at least three months as well as symptoms that repeatedly occur over at least two years.
Bronchitis Symptoms
Standard bronchitis symptoms can often be treated at home and may include coughing (often with mucus), shortness of breath, chest discomfort, and fatigue. However, if your symptoms last longer than three weeks, keep you awake at night, or include any of the following, you should seek medical attention:
- A fever higher than 100.4° F
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
- Bloody or discolored mucus
Bronchitis Treatment
As was noted above, mild bronchitis symptoms will often resolve without the need for medical intervention. Some at-home remedies that may provide relief include:
- Taking over-the-counter medication
- Breathing in steam
- Resting
- Staying hydrated
If your symptoms are more severe, an experienced medical provider will recommend a course of treatment that’s customized to your specific needs. For instance, bronchitis caused by a bacterial infection might require antibiotics, while bronchitis caused by a viral infection could potentially be treated using an inhaler or a cough suppressant.
Walk-In Visits Welcome
At PhysicianOne Urgent Care, we treat bronchitis and other non-life-threatening conditions on a walk-in basis (although we can also schedule an appointment in advance, if preferred). Stop into our Franklin immediate care center today at 648 Old West Central Street, near Starbucks, or call us at 860-650-3848 if you have any questions.
