If you have fever cold or cough, it is better that you wait. Till symptoms disappear, you can wait. But, consult with your doctor and make the final decision

Spirometry can detect the ability of the lungs to take in and expel air. Abnormality in the readings can help with understanding the presence of lung infection. Other additional tests might be necessary to really distinguish both

Treatment would start with prescription of OTC medications and oral steroids. Use of humidifiers, cough suppressants and home care would alleviate symptoms. Extra supply of oxygen can also be given when needed

It is contagious as long as symptoms are visible. Close association with patients can spread the infection. If the cause is a pathogen, then it is very likely that it gets transmitted to those around

Bronchitis is likely to prolong for weeks. You cannot be off from work for weeks. The best and ideal solution would be to follow personal hygiene and continue working. Ensure that you sneeze or cough within yourself by using handkerchiefs and make sure that you don’t share items with anyone else till you become fine

Bronchitis can prolong for 2-8 weeks time. In case of a person with lowered body resistance, he is likely to have the signs for a longer duration of time. Chronic cases might have it for 3 months continuously in a year and for at least 2 consecutive years

It is infectious. If you are in close touch with a patient, then you have possibilities of getting it. Adherence to personal hygiene is the best preventive measure in this regard

Bronchitis can be transmitted via infected air borne particles. Close touch with infected patients in the form of item sharing or handling of surfaces touched by patients can form the basis of transmission

Bronchitis tends to be present for weeks. So taking off from work for weeks would be tough. And the ailment is contagious till symptoms persist. In this case, better check with your doctor. Get to know as to how you can prevent transmission and follow personal hygience without taking off from work for long

In this case, I would suggest not going by the signs that are visible. Please check with your doctor. Tests like spirometry or chest x ray would help in the detection of the root cause. OTC medications are not advisable unless prescribed by a doctor particularly for infants