Chronic bronchitis
Treatment:
There is no cure for chronic bronchitis. Treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing complications.Smoking and all other respiratory irritants should be avoided.Antibiotics are prescribed for infections, as needed.Respiratory treatments including nebulizers and postural drainage facilitate the removal of thick mucus from the airways. Home oxygen therapy, physical exercise programs, breathing exercises, and patient education programs all contribute to the treatment plan.
Support groups:
The stress of illness can often be helped by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems. See lung disease - support group.
Expectations (prognosis):
The chance for recovery is poor for advanced disease. Early recognition and treatment combined with smoking cessation improves the chance of a good outcome significantly.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call your health care provider if respiratory infection or unexplained symptoms develop, or you are coughing up blood.
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