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

    Allergy Expert Gives Tips On Seasonal Allergies

    Your Allergy Meds Come With Hazards: Be Aware

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

    Rare Red Meat Allergy Linked To More Tick Species

    Tools You Can Use to Control Winter Asthma, Allergy Symptoms

    Polluting Puff: Asthma Inhalers Are Big Contributors to Climate Change

    Most Americans Keep Chronic Health Conditions Hidden at Work: Poll

    Too Few Asthma Patients Are Using Updated Inhalers

    September is Peak Asthma Month: Is Your Child Ready?

    How Early Antibiotic Use Could Raise Kids' Asthma Risk

    The Right Time is Now to Get Your Flu Vaccine

    Simple Paper-Strip Test Might Spot Flu, and Which Type You Have

    Expert Advice on Preparing for the Fall COVID, Flu Season

    U.S. Government to Pay Moderna $176 Million to Develop mRNA Flu Vaccine

    'Dual Mutant' Seasonal Flu Virus Could Make Some Treatments Ineffective