Bronchitis & Ear Infections

Bronchitis is a lung disorder that causes the bronchial tubes to become inflamed. Ear infections are common in young children and rarely occur in adults. Bronchitis and ear infections can both be caused by viral infections such as a cold.

Bronchitis Symptoms

• According to the Mayo Clinic, bronchitis patients may develop a cough with sputum, shortness of breath or wheezing.

Bronchitis Causes

• Bronchitis is usually caused by the common cold virus but it can also result from exposure to tobacco smoke, household cleaners or smog.

Bronchitis Treatment

• Bronchitis may be treated with rest, plenty of fluids and over-the-counter pain relievers. Rare cases of this disease that are caused by bacteria may be treated with antibiotics.

Ear Infection Symptoms

• According to the Mayo Clinic, children with an ear infection may cry more than usual, tug at their ears because of ear pain and have a fever above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Adults with an ear infection may also experience ear pain and fever.

Ear Infection Causes

• Ear infections often develop from the common cold virus but may also be caused by adenoid infections that spread to the Eustachian tubes of the ear.

Ear Infection Treatment

• Most ear infections clear up on their own after a few days without treatment. Antibiotics may be used in children younger than six months in age or children with recurring ear infections.