Acute Bronchitis

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes. The bronchial tubes are air passageways that connect the throat to the lungs. When there is an inflammation, the body makes mucus and the tissue in the bronchial tubes swells. Bronchitis is usually caused by a viral infection. Other causes of bronchitis are irritating fumes such as smoke, chemicals, or dust.

The first symptoms are often “cold” symptoms such as head congestion, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, low-grade fever (under 101° F), and chills. The next symptoms are a cough that can be dry or rattling, and chest discomfort or pressure.

Treatment of Bronchitis

• Add moisture to the bedroom with a cool mist humidifier. Clean it daily with bleach or Lysol^®.

• Take hot, steamy showers.

• Drink plenty of liquids to keep the mucus thin and easier to cough up.

• Take a cough syrup with an expectorant (guaifenesin) to help loosen the mucus.

• Take acetaminophen (Tylenol^®) for fever or aches. (Never give aspirin to a child; it may cause Reye’s syndrome, a potentially fatal illness.)

• Do not smoke; avoid smoke-filled rooms and breathing chemicals or other irritants.

• Get extra rest and avoid strenuous activities.

• Eat a well-balanced diet.

Symptoms to Report to Your Health Care Provider:

• Fever over 101° F for 3 days

• Cough that produces bloody mucus

• Shortness of breath even when the body is at rest, or increased shortness of breath with exertion

• Chest pain made worse with deep breathing

Prevention of Bronchitis

Viruses are spread by contact with mucus. Coughing and sneezing spread the mucus in the air. Use a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Avoid touching a sick person whenever possible; if you do touch them, wash your hands well. Avoid sharing glasses or dishes. Extra rest, good nutrition, and avoiding smoke and other lung irritants help you to keep from getting bronchitis.