Bronchitis is when the airways in your lungs (bronchi) become inflamed. This makes it hard for air to flow in and out, leading to symptoms like coughing, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
Bronchitis is usually caused by a virus. But it can also be caused by environmental factors, like cigarette smoking and air pollution. And if you have a lingering cough or a “chest cold,” you might be wondering: Do I have bronchitis? If so, this quiz is a good place to start.
Why trust our experts?

Written by:
Sarah Gupta, MDSarah Gupta, MD, is a licensed physician with a special interest in mental health, sex and gender, eating disorders, and the human microbiome. She is currently board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.

Edited by:
Sophie Vergnaud, MDSophie Vergnaud, MD, is the Senior Medical Director for GoodRx Health. A pulmonologist and hospitalist, she practiced and taught clinical medicine at hospitals in London for a decade before entering a career in health education and technology.










