The following tips will help prevent acute bronchitis, as well as its recurrence or chronicity.

Life habits

Do not smoke or expose yourself to second-hand smoke. Smoking has been shown to increase inflammation in the bronchi and trigger coughing fits. Another important consequence: the smoke thickens the secretions and paralyzes the bronchial cilia responsible for expelling the secretions. Quitting smoking appears to have the most positive effect in preventing bronchitis².

Strengthen your immune system. Rest, physical exercise practiced moderately, but regularly, and a healthy diet (meeting your protein needs as well as vitamins and minerals, avoiding the abuse of foods high in sugar and saturated fat, etc.) are the basis of good immunity. These measures help prevent infections of all kinds and their recurrence. To learn more about this, see our sheet Strengthening your immune system.

Cold and flu prevention

It is obviously important to guard against common infections, such as colds and flu, since they often precede bronchitis. A few very simple hygiene measures minimize the risk:

– laver frequently the hands;

– bring your hands to your face as little as possible;

– avoid confined spaces in the presence of infected people.

For people with fragile health, the vaccination flu and pneumonia can reduce the risk of getting bronchitis. Discuss it with his doctor.

For more information, see the Prevention section of our Cold and Flu sheets.

Pay attention to air quality

As far as possible, this involves eliminating or avoiding airborne irritants that aggravate or trigger respiratory ailments: toxic gases, dust in the workplace, etc. Maintain combustion appliances and their ventilation system (chimney or exhaust ducts), if necessary. If you’re at risk, it’s best to avoid outdoor activities when air pollution is high.