Treatment
Your doctor will typically perform a physical exam and question you about your symptoms and medical history in order to determine if you have acute bronchitis. In most cases, the condition will go away on its own within a week or two.
Nonetheless, your doctor will likely also prescribe antibiotics if they determine that the cause of your bronchitis is a bacterial infection. In more severe cases, you may also be prescribed a cough syrup or other medication to help loosen mucus, and there are also many over-the-counter medications that can do the same. In addition, you may also want to consider taking an NSAID, as these can help to relieve aches and pains, lessen inflammation and lower your fever.
If your doctor determines that you’re suffering from chronic bronchitis, the goal of your treatment will be more about managing your symptoms and attempting to help you breathe better. The very first thing your doctor will likely recommend is that you quit smoking and avoid second-hand smoke and other irritants as much as possible since these will all worsen your bronchial irritation. You may also be prescribed various medications that may be able to help improve your breathing or at least prevent your symptoms from getting worse. In more severe cases, you may need to start undergoing oxygen therapy if your doctor determines that your condition is preventing your body from getting adequate oxygen.
