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

    Tick-Borne Meat Allergy Raises Blood Transfusion Reaction Risk

    Holiday Tips To Keep Allergies and Asthma Under Control

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

    Yes, This is the Worst Pollen Season Ever — Until Next Year

    Watching the Super Bowl? Doctors Warn About Hidden Health Risks for Fans

    Nighttime Heat Waves Increase Asthma Risk

    Vitamins Might Be Key To Asthma Control In Children, Adults

    Heavy 'Forever Chemical' Exposure Before Birth Increases Childhood Asthma Risk, Study Finds

    Wildfire Smoke Puts Millions At Risk Across Midwest, Northeast

    Semaglutide Linked To 40% Fewer Asthma Attacks

    A Doctor's Take: Expert-Backed Tips to Protect Kids From Germs For The School Year

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

    Tamiflu Helps Keep Severely Ill Kids Out Of The ICU, Study Finds

    The Reason Why Many Older Americans Skip Seasonal Vaccines

    Watching the Super Bowl? Doctors Warn About Hidden Health Risks for Fans