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Medical treatments for acute bronchitis
Although acute bronchitis usually resolves on its own, it is important to see a doctor in order to have an accurate diagnosis, and especially when the following symptoms appear:
– a high or sustained fever;
– shortness of breath, especially if it gets worse when lying down;
– sputum containing blood;
– severe pain in the chest;
– a general feeling of weakness which is accentuated.
The doctor examines the lungs using a stethoscope and makes specific recommendations based on the cause of the bronchitis and the symptoms reported.
Medical treatments for acute bronchitis: understand everything in 2 minutes
La cough usually resolves on its own within a few days without treatment. In the event of a nocturnal cough, the use of a humidifier in the bedroom brings relief.
In more severe cases, if the doctor suspects pneumonia or another lung problem, radiography of the lungs may be indicated.
Home care– Take repos. — Hydrate well. Drink at least 8 cups a day of water and hot drinks, such as tea and broths. – To help liquefy the mucus and promote its expulsion from the bronchi, maintain a humidity level of 30% to 50% indoors, by ventilating the rooms well (if necessary, use a humidifier cold or lukewarm). Take some hot baths is also beneficial. – Throughout the illness, avoid exposure to smoke, cold air and air pollutants as much as possible. – Follow the other measures oflifestyle described in the Prevention section. |
pharmaceuticals
If necessary, various drugs can improve the patient’s comfort.
Antitussifs. It is better not to take cough remedy over-the-counter, such as dextrometorphan (DXM) or codeine syrup. Indeed, the function of the cough is to evacuate the mucus and to clear the respiratory tract. However, if the cough interferes too much with sleep or normal activities, these remedies may offer helpful relief. However, be aware that their effectiveness is limited, or even zero for many adults.21,23 and that their use is not recommended for children23.
Bronchodilators. In the event of wheezing or rales, the use of a medicine which has the effect of opening the bronchi often helps. The doctor may then consider prescribing a beta2 agonist bronchodilator in the form of an inhaler (for example, salbutamol or Ventolin®).
Bronchial fluidifier. Guaifenesin, for example, has an expectorant effect which liquefies bronchial secretions. It is found in the active ingredients of some cough syrups or decongestants (for example, Robitussin Chest Congestion®). However, according to studies, it is not certain that these drugs are actually more effective than a placebo.18.
antibiotics. In the vast majority of cases, bronchitis is caused by a virus. Antibiotics are not then of no use. In addition, the greenish-yellow coloration of the secretions is not an indicator of bacterial infection and does not justify the prescription of antibiotics. However, if an infection bactérienne is diagnosed, antibiotics may sometimes be prescribed.
If you have a sore throat ou headache, aspirin (for adults only), acetaminophen (Tylenol®, Panadol®, etc.) or ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®, etc.) may provide relief.