Acute Bronchitis

In patient with “Acute Cough,” can present exactly like asthma, with any (or all) of the following (bilaterally):

Wheezes (long, high-pitched, expiratory)
Rhonchi (long or short, high- or low-pitched, inspiratory &/or expiratory squeaks & gurgles)
Expiratory Phase longer than Inspiratory (“E > I”, which is the opposite of a normal exam)
Maybe even normal lung sounds (in which case, diagnose “Tracheitis”)

No fever.

Distinguish from Asthma by No Prior History of similar symptoms.

Treat with inhaled bronchodilators.

Add “controller meds” on follow-up if needed
Don’t chart “asthma” until symptoms persist months, or there’s a pattern of recurrence.

Do NOT give Antibiotics (it’s always viral).