Bronchitis
Available at both our Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations
Fast Relief for Bronchitis Symptoms
Bronchitis treatment requires determining whether your persistent cough is caused by viral infection, bacterial infection, or other respiratory conditions. We provide comprehensive evaluation including chest X-rays when needed, rapid diagnostic testing, and evidence-based treatment plans tailored to your specific condition. Walk-ins welcome at both Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations, open daily 8am-8pm.
When to Seek Bronchitis Care
- Persistent cough lasting more than 3 weeks
- Coughing up yellow, green, or blood-tinged mucus
- Chest discomfort or tightness when breathing
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
- Fever with productive cough
- Fatigue that interferes with daily activities
- Difficulty sleeping due to coughing
- Worsening symptoms despite home care
- History of asthma or COPD with new respiratory symptoms
- Cough accompanied by chest pain
How We Diagnose & Treat Bronchitis
Our medical providers use evidence-based protocols to distinguish between acute bronchitis, chronic bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions. We perform thorough evaluations including lung assessment, oxygen level monitoring, and on-site chest X-rays when clinically indicated. This comprehensive approach ensures safe, effective treatment without the benefit of long-term medical history.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Diagnostic Capabilities
Recovery Timeline & Self-Care
According to the CDC, acute bronchitis typically improves within 2-3 weeks, though cough may persist for several weeks as airways heal. Most patients experience significant symptom improvement within 7-10 days with appropriate treatment. Recovery recommendations include adequate rest, increased fluid intake (8-10 glasses daily), use of a humidifier, and avoiding respiratory irritants like smoke. Over-the-counter cough suppressants may help nighttime symptoms. Return for follow-up if symptoms worsen, fever develops after initial improvement, or cough persists beyond 3 weeks. This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. For urgent but non-emergency conditions, visit True Compassion Urgent Care at either our Palm Beach Gardens or Stuart location. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.
Available at Both Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
Our medical providers use clinical evaluation, symptom duration, and diagnostic testing to determine the cause. According to medical guidelines, most bronchitis cases (90-95%) are viral and don't require antibiotics. Bacterial bronchitis is more likely if you have persistent fever, severe symptoms lasting beyond 10 days, or underlying lung conditions. We use evidence-based protocols to make this determination safely.
Chest X-rays are ordered when clinically indicated to rule out pneumonia or other serious conditions. Our medical providers follow established guidelines: X-rays are typically recommended if you have high fever, severe shortness of breath, abnormal lung sounds, or symptoms suggesting pneumonia. Having on-site X-ray capability allows us to make accurate diagnoses promptly.
Yes, we offer nebulizer treatments for patients experiencing wheezing or significant breathing difficulty. These treatments deliver medication directly to your airways for fast relief. Our medical providers will determine if nebulizer therapy is appropriate based on your symptoms and medical history.
Most bronchitis cases are viral and don't benefit from antibiotics. According to CDC guidelines, antibiotics are only prescribed when bacterial infection is confirmed or strongly suspected based on clinical criteria. Inappropriate antibiotic use can lead to resistance and side effects. Our providers follow evidence-based protocols to prescribe antibiotics only when medically necessary.
Urgent care is ideal for bronchitis when you need prompt evaluation, especially if you have difficulty breathing, persistent fever, or worsening symptoms. We offer walk-in convenience with comprehensive diagnostic capabilities including chest X-rays. If you have chronic lung disease or complex medical conditions, we can coordinate with your primary care physician for ongoing management.
Please bring your photo ID, insurance card, a list of current medications including inhalers, and any relevant medical records especially if you have asthma or COPD. This information helps our medical providers create the safest, most effective treatment plan for your specific situation.
Seek emergency care immediately if you experience severe difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, bluish lips or fingernails, coughing up large amounts of blood, or symptoms of respiratory failure. For typical bronchitis symptoms like persistent cough, mild shortness of breath, or fever, urgent care provides appropriate comprehensive evaluation and treatment.
If your bronchitis is viral, you're typically contagious for the first few days of symptoms, similar to a cold. According to medical guidelines, you can usually return to work or school once fever has resolved for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication and you feel well enough. Practice good hygiene including frequent handwashing and covering coughs to prevent spreading infection.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content on this page is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition.
In case of a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. Do not rely on this information for emergency medical treatment.
No physician-patient relationship is created by viewing this content. This information does not replace in-person evaluation and treatment by a licensed medical professional.
Ready to Get Care?
Walk-ins welcome at both locations. Open daily 8am-8pm.