Published at November 15, 2024

Winter is just around the corner, and while the holidays are great at bringing us all together, they also present many opportunities to pick up a cough. A small cough isn’t a big deal, but depending on its source and severity, you can wind up needing medical care.

Today, we’re looking at two common causes of a more severe cough, namely, bronchitis and sinusitis. With both of these illnesses, it’s better to start treatment early to avoid the worsening of symptoms. Take a look at the symptoms below and schedule an online appointment with 24HourDoc when you are ready to receive treatment.

Do You Have Bronchitis?

Bronchitis is a respiratory condition where your bronchial tubes are inflamed. The two types of bronchitis are:

Acute bronchitis: Typically resulting from a viral infection, acute bronchitis typically lasts for a few weeks.

Chronic bronchitis: This long-term form of bronchitis is caused by prolonged exposure to irritants like cigarette smoke or environmental pollutants, leading to inflammation.

Bronchitis Symptoms

  • Persistent cough
  • Sore throat
  • Fatigue
  • Chest discomfort
  • Mucus that may appear clear, white, yellowish-gray, or green
  • Mild headache and body aches
  • Shortness of breath and wheezing
  • Low-grade fever with chills

Is Bronchitis Contagious​?

Bronchitis can be contagious, depending on its cause. Acute bronchitis is contagious as it can be spread through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. While less common, bacterial bronchitis can also be contagious. On the other hand, chronic bronchitis is not contagious as it is caused by damage to the airways from external irritants.

Do You Have Sinusitis?

Sinusitis, which is also known as a sinus infection, is where the tissue lining the sinuses is inflamed. It is generally triggered by viral infections, allergies, or nasal polyps, all of which can affect sinus drainage. Like bronchitis, there are different versions of sinusitis based on the length of the illness. They are as follows:

Acute sinusitis: Only lasts a short period, typically less than four weeks.

Subacute sinusitis: This typically lasts between four to twelve weeks.

Chronic sinusitis: This typically lasts for twelve weeks or more.

Recurrent sinusitis: Where you have multiple recurring bouts within the span of a year.

Common Sinusitis Symptoms:

  • Congested or runny nose
  • Facial pain or pressure
  • Cough caused by post-nasal drip
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Sore throat
  • Bad breath or diminished sense of smell
  • Fatigue

Could Your Cough Be Something Else?

If you don’t think you have bronchitis or sinusitis, there are a number of other reasons why you might have a cough. While the following illnesses range in symptoms and severity, they all can include a cough:

  • Common Cold
  • Asthma
  • Allergies
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
  • Environmental Irritants
  • Medication Side Effects
  • Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
  • Pneumonia
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
  • Smoking

Bronchitis vs Sinusitis: 24HourDoc Treatment Options

If you have a cough that isn’t going away, consider setting up an online appointment with a qualified doctor at 24HourDoc. Depending on your symptoms and medical history, we’ll be able to offer advice and prescribe medication if necessary. It’s important to get your cough checked as bronchitis may lead to pneumonia while sinusitis may result in chronic sinus inflammation.

Standard Treatments for Bronchitis

Acute Bronchitis: Acute bronchitis is can be treated with simple home remedies like rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Your doctor may also recommend cough suppressants or expectorants.

Chronic Bronchitis: Inhaled bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and oxygen therapy may be prescribed in the case of chronic bronchitis.

Standard Treatments for Sinusitis

Acute Sinusitis: For acute sinus infections, nasal saline rinses, decongestants, and pain relievers are commonly recommended. If it is a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed.

Chronic Sinusitis: In addition to nasal corticosteroids, treatment for chronic sinusitis may include long-term antibiotics, and in severe cases, surgery to improve drainage.

Staying Healthy This Winter

Particularly during the cold months when our immune systems have to work overtime, we are more susceptible to getting sick. To prevent infections and other illnesses, we recommend making positive lifestyle choices with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Additionally, be sure to bundle up when you go outside, wash your hands frequently, drink lots of fluids, and avoid large crowds where possible.

Health is wealth, so it’s worth prioritizing your well-being this winter and always. For any questions about a cough or another health matter, please reach out to our friendly team of doctors here at 24HourDoc. We’re always ready for a quick consultation should you need it!