Bronchitis is an infection of the bronchi, which are large airways that lead to the lungs. Bronchitis can be caused by either a bacterial or viral infection, although viral infections make up over 90% of bronchitis cases. Since the majority of cases are viral infections, antibiotics will have no effect on symptoms. Thankfully, bronchitis is not usually serious and clears up on its own in a few weeks. Even if antibiotics aren’t needed, there are some ways you can treat the symptoms of bronchitis.

1. BRONCHITIS: CAUSES,
SYMPTOMS, AND
TREATMENT OPTIONS
DOC-AID Urgent Care

2. Bronchitis is an infection of the bronchi, which are large
airways that lead to the lungs. Bronchitis can be caused by
either a bacterial or viral infection, although viral
infections make up over 90% of bronchitis cases. Since the
majority of cases are viral infections, antibiotics will have
no effect on symptoms. Some factors increase the risk of
bronchitis, such as smoking, exposure to second-hand
smoke, exposure to chemical fumes or dust, and acid
reflux. Thankfully, bronchitis is not usually serious and
clears up on its own in a few weeks. Even if antibiotics
aren’t needed, there are some ways you can treat the
symptoms of bronchitis.

3. WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO TREAT
BRONCHITIS?
Most people who have acute bronchitis experience mild to moderate symptoms. Most
cases clear up on their own without the need for medical intervention. The best ways
to relieve symptoms are:
❑Drink plenty of fluids
❑Get plenty of rest
❑Take over-the-counter pain relievers
❑Increase the humidity in your home

4. DRINK PLENTY OF FLUIDS
To recover quickly, it is important to stay
hydrated. However, you should avoid caffeine
and alcohol as these drinks limit hydration and
produce adverse effects.

5. GET PLENTY OF REST
A good night’s sleep is incredibly important in
order for your body to heal. Sleep also helps
to boost the immune system, so you can better
fight the illness.

6. TAKE OVER-THE-COUNTER PAIN RELIEVERS
These can help to reduce inflammation, ease
pain, and lower your fever. These could include
acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil).
Never give aspirin to a child. It has been
linked to a serious condition called Reye’s
syndrome, which can cause swelling in the liver
and brain.

7. INCREASE THE HUMIDITY IN YOUR HOME
This can easily be done by using a humidifier
or boiling water. Increased humidity loosens
mucous and helps relieve a sore throat.

8. HOW LONG DOES THE RECOVERY
FROM BRONCHITIS TAKE?
Recovery from bronchitis can take a few weeks. Symptoms often include:
❑Sore throat
❑Fever
❑Chills
❑Body Aches
❑Chest congestion or tightness
❑Cough that brings up clear, green, or
yellow mucus
❑Shortness of breath
❑Wheezing
The cough can be persistent and last for several weeks or more. This occurs due to the time that it
takes the bronchial tubes to heal. A cough that lasts longer than a month may signal another
problem, such as asthma or pneumonia.

9. CAN BRONCHITIS GO AWAY ON ITS
OWN?
As mentioned earlier, bronchitis produces mild to moderate symptoms in most people and
usually clears up on its own in a few weeks with proper hydration and lots of rest. Although
bronchitis is usually not a serious life-threatening condition, it can lead to much discomfort. If
you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor right away:
❑A cough is severe and lasts more than three weeks
❑Mucus contains blood
❑Breathing is rapid, or there are chest pains
❑Drowsiness and confusion occur

10. oAdditionally, if you experience a fever for more than three days in a row, it
could indicate a more serious condition, such as pneumonia.
oSomeone with chronic bronchitis and COPD (chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease) may need steroids and bronchodilators to open their
airways and help clear out mucus. Oxygen therapy may also make
breathing easier.
oAcute or chronic bronchitis cannot always be prevented. However,
avoiding smoking and lung irritants and frequently washing hands may
lower the risk of developing both conditions.
oIf you or someone you know is exhibiting symptoms related to bronchitis,
come to DOC-AID Urgent Care today! Our team of kind and
compassionate healthcare professionals is experienced in treating
bronchitis and can help you find relief!

11. WHAT IS ASTHMA? FACT SHEET
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