Bronchitis – 5 More Questions You Should Ask Your Doctor
1. What treatment/medication will I be prescribed for my Bronchitis?
Treatment of Acute Bronchitis:
The treatment is usually done to tackle the symptoms since it has a virus orientation. So the doctor may prescribe Decongestants to open up the nasal passage, expectorants to loosen the thick phlegm and mucus build up, cough suppressants to soothe the hacking and lingering cough, and Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs such as aspirins, paracetamols etc to treat the fever and sore throat. Antibiotics are rarely given. The patient is asked to rest, drink plenty of fluids and breathe warm and humid air. Apart from this the patient is advised to stay away from irritants/pollutants, smoking, alcohol and caffeine until fully recovered. Usage of a vaporizer and hot baths is also recommended.
Treatment of Chronic Bronchitis:
This would include the usage of antibiotics. Inhalation of corticosteroids to minimise respiratory epithelium damage is also recommended. Bronchospasms are treated using bronchodilators such as Beta-Adrenergic Agonists and low oxygen levels in the blood may be tackled by usage of oxygen cylinders. Avoidance of irritants such as smoke, dust, pollutants, tobacco, and alcohol is recommended.
2. What are the prevention tips for Bronchitis?
• Repeated washing of hands especially before eating or drinking
• Practice of personal hygiene
• Taking of prescribed medication correctly
• Avoiding areas which are known to have air pollution and suspended irritants
• Limiting or avoiding exposure to infected patients
• Getting pneumonia shots prescribed by your doctor
• Using mask to cover your mouth and nose of in a risky area
3. What are the risk factors involved?
Factors such as exposure to air pollutants, suspended air irritants, smoke, chemical fumes, toxic gases, dust etc increase your risk of coming down with Bronchitis. Other risk factor includes the phenomenon where stomach juices are repeatedly pushed up and back unto your oesophagus. Weak immunity always plays an abeting role in most diseases.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
Add a Comment2 Comments
A homeopathic remedy that helps with chesty cough is bronchalis-heel (also called husten-heel)
May 5, 2011 - 4:13pmThis Comment
Thank you for sharing.
May 5, 2011 - 9:52pm