Acute Bronchitis
Alternate Names : Inflammation of the Bronchi, Infection of the Bronchi
What are the treatments for the infection?
Treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms and may include
the following:
pain medicine
for minor discomfort and to reduce fever
cough suppressant
cough expectorant, to thin the mucus and make it easier to cough up
antibiotics, if the cause is bacterial
drinking plenty of fluids
increasing air moisture with the use of a cool-mist
humidifier
stopping smoking while sick. Smoking
delays recovery and makes complications more likely.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Some people have allergic reactions to medicines
or may get an upset stomach from them. Antibiotics may cause
diarrhea
as well.
What happens after treatment for the infection?
Once the person feels better, he or she is free to return to
regular activities.
How is the infection monitored?
Once the person has recovered, no further monitoring is
required unless there are repeated bouts of acute bronchitis or other
serious medical problems. Any new or worsening symptoms should be
reported to the doctor.
|