Can Allergies Cause Bronchitis?

Allergies and bronchitis are common respiratory issues. Allergic diseases, including those that cause bronchitis-like symptoms (e.g., asthma and atopic dermatitis), affect 10%–30% of the world’s population according to research from the Shanghai Jiao Tong University—with higher rates in children and urban areas due to allergens and pollution. In 2021, asthma alone impacted 262 million people throughout the world These projections further estimate a continued rise to 2050, driven by environmental triggers like allergens. But can allergies actually cause bronchitis? 

The answer is yes. Allergic reactions, such as seasonal allergies, often worsen respiratory conditions which can include inflammation of the bronchial tubes. This may result in bronchitis, especially during high-pollen seasons. The occurrence of the condition is so common during high-pollen seasons that it has earned the name: ‘allergic bronchitis’—which is specifically caused by allergens, not infections. 

Understanding Bronchitis

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), bronchitis is a condition that impacts 4.2% of the U.S. population (when factoring in chronic bronchitis caused by allergies). The most common causes, however, are due to a viral infection or other irritants, such as cigarette smoke. As noted above, bronchitis involves inflammation of the bronchial tubes. These tubes carry air to and from the lungs that, when inflamed, cause discomfort.

Bronchitis is marked by a persistent cough. This cough often brings up mucus, which adds to respiratory distress. Other symptoms include fatigue, chest pain, and shortness of breath. 

Types of Bronchitis

Bronchitis develops in two main forms: acute and chronic. Both types involve inflamed bronchial tubes but differ in causes and duration. Acute bronchitis is usually short-term and often results from viral infections, which may be resolved within a few weeks. Chronic bronchitis, however, lasts longer. This form of the condition is often caused by smoking or long-term exposure to irritants.

Bronchitis Comparison Chart

Below is a comparison of Acute Bronchitis, Chronic Bronchitis, and Allergic Bronchitis, based on key characteristics. 

The Link Between Allergies and Bronchitis

Allergic bronchitis results from exposure to specific allergens and the releases of histamines in the body. These allergens trigger inflammation in the bronchial tubes that in turn result in this form of bronchitis. This is why individuals with allergies are more prone to respiratory issues. 

According to a study by Dr. Douglas M. Fleming Director of the Birmingham Research Unit of the Royal College of General Practitioners, children under the age of five years old are most vulnerable to acute bronchitis, with 6% experiencing at least one episode every year. Additionally, it should be noted that allergic triggers like dust or pollen amplify this in kids who have rhinitis or asthma.

Symptoms of Allergic Bronchitis

The symptoms of allergic bronchitis are nearly identical to other forms of the condition. Common symptoms can include persistent coughing and mucus production. Wheezing and chest discomfort are other possible symptoms. All of these symptoms often mimic those of other respiratory conditions.

If you think you may be suffering from allergic bronchitis, key symptoms to be aware of include:

• Continuous cough
• Excessive mucus
• Wheezing
• Chest tightness

Also, symptoms such as fatigue and aches caused by allergies may actually be a result of allergy-induced conditions such as allergic bronchitis. These symptoms vary in intensity, depending on the severity of your allergies, and you may experience few or all of them. 

Unlike infectious bronchitis, allergic bronchitis is not contagious. It is crucial to identify and avoid allergens to prevent this condition. Managing allergies reduces the risk of developing bronchitis.

Treatment Options

Both conditions share overlapping symptoms. However, management of each of these conditions is different. For allergies, medication may reduce symptoms and exposure to triggers. Bronchitis often necessitates additional respiratory support. Combining treatments may be necessary if you are experiencing both conditions.

Managing Allergies

Minimizing exposure to allergens, especially pollen, can be difficult. There are a few ways in which you can prepare your home一especially commonly used spaces such as bedrooms一if your allergies feel worse at night. Showering before bed and using hypoallergenic bedding can help prevent allergens from getting into fabrics like blankets and sheets. 

You might also make it a habit to dust more often to keep living areas clean and free of allergens. Consider using air purifiers, or keeping windows closed and staying indoors during high-pollen periods.

To properly manage symptoms, you might consider over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal sprays, or immunotherapy if your allergies are particularly severe. When you do experience an allergic reaction, managing the symptoms properly can prevent developing related conditions, such as allergic bronchitis.

Allergic Bronchitis Treatment Strategies

If you are experiencing viral acute or chronic bronchitis, the treatment strategies to pursue may be slightly different. Allergic bronchitis treatment is all about trying to reduce the discomfort and irritants that keep the bronchial tubes swollen. You might consider using:

• Cough suppressants to reduce coughing
• Mucolytics to thin mucus
• Rest and hydration to support recovery

Allergies and Bronchitis: FAQs

How Do I Know If I Have Allergies or Bronchitis?

You may have allergies if you experience itchy eyes, sneezing, runny nose, and recurring symptoms with no fever. You might have bronchitis if you have a persistent cough, wheezing, chest tightness, and mucus production—which could also be accompanied by a fever and fatigue. A key differentiator is the presence of other allergy symptoms like itching or a fever. If you’re unsure or have severe symptoms, you can visit a CareFirst Urgent Care Center for a proper diagnosis of either condition.

Is Allergic Bronchitis Contagious? 

No, unlike acute bronchitis—which is most commonly the result of a viral infection—allergic bronchitis is caused by allergies which cannot be passed on to another person. This is why it is important to understand the differences and to pinpoint which form of bronchitis you are experiencing to know if you can potentially transmit the virus.

How Long Does Allergic Bronchitis Last?

Allergic bronchitis may last as long as 2-3 weeks, depending on the severity of your reaction. If symptoms last for more than 3 weeks—or continue to get worse instead of improving—seek medical attention as your condition may be a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). 

Does Allergic Bronchitis Cause a Fever?

Allergic bronchitis may cause a low-grade fever, which is a raised body temperature of anywhere from 99.5°F (37.5°C) to 100.4°F (38°C). If your fever is higher than that, you may have a bacterial infection which can be evaluated by an urgent care specialist who will prescribe antibiotics to help manage symptoms.

Get Treatment Today

If you are seeking treatment for bronchitis, allergies, or other respiratory conditions, CareFirst Urgent Care is open and available with convenient hours and walk-in availability. Visits often last less than one hour, so you can get in and out on your schedule! We also accept all insurances to make sure that your visit is straightforward and affordable. Find a location near you today!