Health Tip: Treating Bronchitis

(HealthDay News) -- Bronchitis is a viral or bacterial infection that causes inflammation of the bronchial tubes, making breathing more difficult.

The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute recommends these steps to help cope with bronchitis:

  • Get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids.
  • Adults may want to take aspirin for fever; acetaminophen (never aspirin) for children.
  • If your doctor suspects you have a bacterial infection, he or she may prescribe an antibiotic. An antibiotic will not help a viral infection, the most common cause of bronchitis.
  • Run a humidifier or sit in a steamy bathroom to help open the airways.
  • If your doctor approves, take a medication to control cough and inflammation.
  • Avoid exposure to things that irritate your lungs, especially tobacco smoke.

    • Date Published: 7/15/2014 12:06:08 PM

    Related Articles

    Search Allergy Articles

    Allergists' Group Updates Guidelines on COVID-19 Vaccines

    Bee Healthy: Honey May Beat Cold Meds Against Cough

    Study Questions Need to Wait Days to Give Baby New Foods

    Your Mask Might Also Shield You From Allergies

    Allergy Treatment Crucial If Your Child Has Asthma

    Spotting Asthma in Your Baby or Toddler

    You've Got Fungi in Your Lungs, and That's OK

    Antibiotics in Pregnancy Tied to Higher Odds for Asthma in Kids

    Spring Cleaning Can Sweep Away Allergens From Your Home

    Study Probes Links in Asthma, Food Sensitivity and Irritable Bowel Syndrome

    COVID-19 Is Far More Lethal, Damaging Than Flu, Data Shows

    Vaccines Saved 37 Million Lives, Mostly Children, Over Past Two Decades

    Pandemic Silver Lining: Fewer Dangerous Flare-Ups for COPD Patients

    Should Cancer Survivors Be Prioritized for COVID Vaccine?

    Mom-to-Be's Flu Shot Doesn't Raise Autism Risk