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

    What's Living On Baby's Skin Might Predict Childhood Eczema Risk

    Peanut Allergy Risk Higher If Older Sibs Eat Peanuts, Study Finds

    Scientists' Push For a Universal Vaccine Takes a Key Step Forward

    Mothers' Milk Might Be Key To Avoiding Childhood Food Allergies

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

    Smoking, Vaping Weed Increases Risk Of Asthma Attacks Among Young Adults, Study Finds

    Asthma More Common Among Kids Whose Moms Have Eating Disorders

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

    New Discovery Could Change How Asthma Is Treated, Scientists Say

    Vaping Family Members Raise Kids' Asthma Risks

    Moderna’s mRNA Flu Vaccine Back Under FDA Review

    Children Should Get Flu Vaccine, Top Pediatrics Group Recommends

    Sepsis, Lung Infection Patients See No Benefit From Remote Monitoring

    The Reason Why Many Older Americans Skip Seasonal Vaccines

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