Health Tip: Caring for Bronchitis

(HealthDay News) -- Bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchial tubes that carry air into your lungs.

When these tubes become infected, they swell and become lined with mucus, making it more difficult to breathe.

Symptoms may include cough, sore throat, fever, chest congestion and shortness of breath.

The American Academy of Family Physicians describes how to help treat bronchitis:

  • Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol.
  • Get lots of rest.
  • Take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication to reduce inflammation, ease pain and lower any fever.
  • Over-the-counter cough medicine is OK, as long as a sick child is at least 6 years old.
  • Increase the humidity at home, such as by using a humidifier.

    • If symptoms don't improve, see a doctor.

    Date Published: 2/28/2024 4:38:34 AM

    Related Articles

    Search Allergy Articles

    Wildfire Smoke Is Choking America's Cities -- Is Yours on the List?

    Wildfire Smoke Alters Immune System, Study Says

    UV Light Effective Against Indoor Allergens, Study Says

    Check Your Pantry, Lay's Classic Potato Chips Recalled Due to Milk Allergy Risk

    Are You Ruining Your Child's Chance To Avoid Food Allergies?

    Antibiotics Might Increase Risk of Childhood Asthma, Allergies

    ER Visits for Burns, Eye Issues Rose 8-Fold During Recent L.A. Fires

    Ozone Pollution Increases Risk Of Childhood Asthma

    Digital Tool Potentially Predicts Childhood Asthma

    Diabetes Meds Metformin, GLP-1s Can Also Curb Asthma

    Has RSV Vaccine Hesitancy Subsided?

    Second Flu Vaccine Meeting Canceled -- What Happens Next?

    Local Outbreaks Can Motivate The Vaccine-Hesitant, Poll Finds

    Flu Cases Start to Surge as Americans Prepare for Holiday Gatherings

    CDC Urges Faster Testing for Bird Flu Amid Growing Outbreak