Bronchitis can affect millions of Americans every single year, whether it be actuate or chronic bronchitis. With a persistent cough, the coughing up of mucus, as well as other very unpleasant symptoms, people who suffer from bronchitis want it to go away as quickly as possible. Acute bronchitis can affect people for up to two weeks, whereas chronic bronchitis symptoms last months and years, and can actually never be resolved. Although bronchitis can affect the body for long periods of time, there is treatment. It is important to go to your doctor as soon as you start developing symptoms that you believe are bronchitis so you can get the treatment you need. There are several different treatments that can help with your specific case of bronchitis, so it is important to tell your doctor everything you know about your symptoms so they can treat what you have quickly and without complications.
Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to you, especially in cases of acute bronchitis. Although many cases of acute bronchitis are viral, your doctor may believe that it is a bacterial infection. Taking antibiotics would help in treating the bronchitis if it is caused by bacteria. It is important to take all of the antibiotics in the prescription your doctor gives you, because ending the antibiotic treatment early could result in the sickness coming back. Other drugs that your doctor may prescribe to you are drugs that open up the airways. These medicines can come in either an inhaler or a pill. This well help your breathing become easier, and it may help the tightness in the chest if a bronchitis victim is suffering from that symptom.
You can take medicines from over the counter to help with your bronchitis. Cough medicine can be taken, but should be used sparingly. This is because when a person has bronchitis, they will cough up mucus that is in their lungs and air passages. Taking cough medicine can suppress the cough, and as much as coughing hurts, it is important to remove as much mucus as you can from your body. However, if the coughing is keeping you up at night, you may want to try a little cough medicine so you can sleep.
Bronchitis sufferers can also do at home remedies to help treat their illness. If you have bronchitis, stay home from work or school, as it can spread, and get plenty of rest. It is also important to maintain a well balanced diet, and to drink plenty of fluids (water is most recommended). It is also advisable to use a humidifier in your room or in the house. The moist, warm air helps loosen mucus in the airways, as well as helps relieve coughs. Make sure to clean the humidifier to prevent bacteria growth and fungi in the water container. Having either of these in the air will only worsen your symptoms.
Often times, the cold air aggravates the bronchitis. It also causes shortness of breath. If the cold air is affecting you when you go outside, you should wear a facemask so you do not worsen your cough.