This week, we’re seeing some illnesses that are similar nature… asthmatic bronchitis, viral bronchitis and bronchiolitis all going around in Colorado Springs this week.

They sound similar, but they do have slight differences.

ASTHMATIC BRONCHITIS
Asthmatic bronchitis is showing up on the North end of the Springs. That’s according to Dr. Tom Bartlett.

He says it starts with an upper respiratory infection.

That includes symptoms like nasal congestion, cough, headache, mild muscle aches and pains and a low-grade fever.

After 2-5 days, this can progress to bronchitis, with worsening cough, wheezing and shortness of breath.

Treatment includes inhalers, antibiotics and sometimes steroids.

VIRAL BRONCHITIS
The viral bronchitis is showing up on the East-side of the Springs, according to Dr. Doug Clark. He’s also with Mountain View Medical Group.

Here’s what he’s seen: dry cough, tight chest, mild sore throat, headache and fatigue.

Dr. Clark says most of the symptoms will go away after 2-5 days. But the cough and fatigue can last for more than two weeks.

Viral bronchitis often needs prescription cough medication and inhaler. But you also need fluids, rest and to elevate your head at night.

BRONCHIOLITIS
Also going around… bronchiolitis. You’ll find that in the Briargate area, according to Dr. Michael Halenkamp.

Bronchiolitis is a viral infection affecting the small air passages in the lungs. It usually affects kids under the age of 2.

Here’s what you’ll notice: a cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, fever and nasal flaring in infants.

Usually symptoms get better within a week. But it can lead to asthma later in life or even pneumonia.