Bronchitis

A cold or flu usually lasts about a week, but after all other symptoms are gone, you may find yourself with a cough that lingers a while longer. Such a cough is often a sign of acute bronchitis. Bronchitis occurs when the lining airways in the lungs gets inflamed and begins making too much mucus. When this happens, you must cough to clear out the extra mucus.

Causes

Acute bronchitis may be caused by viruses or bacteria. Airborne irritants, such as smoke, dust, chemical fumes, or even cold weather, may also cause bronchitis. People who have asthma may develop bronchitis more easily when they have a respiratory infection.

Symptoms

If you have acute bronchitis, your cough may be productive, meaning you cough up mucus (usually yellow or gray instead of clear), or dry and hacking. Acute bronchitis usually lasts 1 to 2 weeks.

After the inflammation of the bronchial tubes is gone, a dry cough, sometimes with wheezing, may remain for as long as 4 to 6 weeks .

The viruses and bacteria that cause acute bronchitis can also cause pneumonia. If your symptoms get worse instead of better, you may have pneumonia and should see your doctor.

Treatment

In some cases, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic. If so, you should take the medication exactly the way it is prescribed. Antibiotics are usually not helpful in shortening the time the cough lasts.

Self-Care Steps for Bronchitis

• Over-the-counter cough suppressants and decongestants may help relieve the nagging cough. Some cough medicines contain antihistamines or other preparations you don't need or want when you have bronchitis. Look for a cough preparation that has only the cough suppressant dextromethorphan. If you are coughing up mucus, you might also try one with the expectorant guaifenesin.

• The best treatment for bronchitis is to drink plenty of fluids. By drinking six to eight glasses of liquids a day, you will help to keep the mucus from gumming up your bronchial tubes. When the mucus is thin and fluid, it's easier to clear away by coughing. When your bronchial passages are clear and the inflammation has gone away, your cough will go away too.

• Get plenty of rest. Listen to your body. You may be able to continue your daily routine while you have bronchitis, but don't overdo it. If you feel tired, rest.

• Avoid alcohol and caffeine. They can make you lose body fluid, which you need to keep the mucus thin.

• Call your doctor if your cough lasts longer than 3 weeks.