People who suffer with chronic bronchitis symptoms often have repeated infections year after year. Since coughing can cause further irritation, using cough suppressants, such as cough drops and cough syrup may provide some relief to patients suffering with bronchitis. The treating physician can also prescribe medications to help clear the inflammation up. Physicians take into account patient medical history, current medications and other health conditions before prescribing a new drug.
Diagnosing Acute Bronchitis
Doctors may order chest X-rays if there is a concern of an infection. Usually the doctor will examine the patient to look for signs of upper airway infection. They may listen to the lungs to detect any signs of wheezing, and feel the lymph nodes for swelling. Doctors may pursue other examinations to rule out more serious infections or lung problems.Treating Acute Bronchitis at Home
Acute bronchitis can start with a sudden cough and may even present with the same symptoms as a cold, such as runny nose, nasal congestion and sore throat. Drinking plenty of fluids, using cough drops or cold medication may be enough. However if a patient has other lung diseases, high blood pressure, or other medical conditions the patient needs to be aware how any over-the-counter medication may interact with prescription medications, or the possibility that the medication may increase blood pressure. Acute bronchitis should start to resolve itself within two to three weeks of care, but if it does not, the patient should be sure to consult their treating physician for further examination.Doctors may prescribe steroid medications to help decrease the inflammation. Some people who suffer with bronchitis may experience wheezing which may be treated with an inhaled albuterol. Antibiotics may also be prescribed, though it is not common. Other recommendations may be over-the-counter products such as Muccinex or Robitussin to help clear secretions. The treating physician will do a through examination, consider the patient's medical history and allergies before recommending any medication in treatment of bronchitis.
Natural Treatments for Bronchitis
Some people suffering with bronchitis prefer to try natural treatments including essential oils, herbs and spices, and other edible remedies. Natural remedies include:- garlic, used as an expectorant and antiviral
- eucalyptus oil, used to help loosen phlegm
- honey, ginger and black pepper, used to help open the blocked tube between throat and lungs
Other remedies include onion juice and tea. Some people also turn to massage, hydrotherapy, and other dietary or lifestyle changes, including quitting smoking, as bronchitis could also be the result of the inhaled chemical irritating the bronchial tube.
As with any treatment, results vary based on each individual. Seeking medical advice for bronchitis allows the patient ample opportunity to discuss possible treatments, medicinal and natural remedies, with the treating physician to ensure the best solution to the individual patient's problem.
Sources:
1. Medicinenet.com "Acute Bronchitis: What is Acute Bronchitis?"
1 Comments
When I have bronchitis, I always drink cup of hot milk with honey and butter. It really helps. You need to drink it before going to bed though, otherwise it’s useless.
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