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

    Holiday Tips To Keep Allergies and Asthma Under Control

    Tick-Borne Meat Allergy: Many Carry Alpha-Gal Antibodies Without Symptoms

    How to Tell if Spring Symptoms Owe to Allergy, Cold or Something More Serious

    Five New Year's Resolutions to Help You Breathe Easier

    Rising Tree Pollen Counts Signal Start of Allergy Season

    New Discovery Could Change How Asthma Is Treated, Scientists Say

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

    Antibiotics Won't Help Ease Asthma-Linked Wheezing in Kids

    Asthma Drug Cuts Need For Steroid Pills While Keeping Attacks In Check

    Holiday Tips To Keep Allergies and Asthma Under Control

    The Flu Vaccine Can Lower Your Risk Of Heart Attack And Stroke — Even If You Wind Up Infected

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

    RFK Jr. Says Fewer Flu Vaccines for Kids May Be a 'Better Thing'

    FDA Declines to Review Moderna’s mRNA Flu Vaccine Application

    Flu Season Starts Early in NYC as Cases Rise Fast