Acute bronchitis
Treatment:
The goal of treatment is to relieve the symptoms with medications and supportive measures.
Bronchodilators such as theophylline or Bronkosol may be prescribed to open constricted air passages. Antibiotics are are used if the sputum becomes yellow, gray, or green; generally an indication of a secondary bacterial infection. Medications that liquefy mucus secretions (mucolytics) may also be prescribed.
Supportive measures include rest, increased humidity (usisng a cool mist humidifier) to soothe air passages, and increased fluid intake to maintain hydration and to thin respiratory secretions.
Expectations (prognosis):
Symptoms usually abate within 7 to 10 days in the absence of prior chronic pulmonary disease.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms suggestive of bronchitis occur.
Call your health care provider if being treated for acute bronchitis and breathlessness develops, or if coughing up blood.
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