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

    Related Articles

    Search Allergy Articles

    UV Light Effective Against Indoor Allergens, Study Says

    Allergy Expert Gives Tips On Seasonal Allergies

    What to Know About Anaphylaxis: Symptoms, Triggers & Treatment

    Why Vaccines Are Especially Important for Children With Asthma

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

    Antibiotics Might Increase Risk of Childhood Asthma, Allergies

    App Helps Asthma Patients Track Symptoms

    Night Shift Associated With Asthma Risk In Women

    Wildfire Smoke Flooded ERs With Asthma Cases

    Water-Damaged Homes, Heavy Air Pollution Increase Asthma Risk In Kids

    Second Flu Vaccine Meeting Canceled -- What Happens Next?

    Severe Flu Season Raises Concerns About Brain Complications in Kids

    They Spent Hours In A Room Full Of Flu Patients And Walked Out Healthy — Here's How

    Why Vaccines Are Especially Important for Children With Asthma

    U.S. Sees Most Child Flu Deaths Since 2009