How to Treat Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is characterized by a persistent cough. Most cases of bronchitis develop after a cold or respiratory infection. However, some individuals are prone to bronchitis, in which symptoms repeatedly appear. Typical bronchitis symptoms include an ongoing cough, sore throat, chest congestion, wheezing and fever. Fortunately, there are ways to treat chronic bronchitis, and prevent future occurrences.

Things You'll Need

• Cough suppressant
• Antibiotic
• Water
• Vitamin supplements
• Face mask

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Instructions

• 1

  Take vitamin supplements. Take a multivitamin, Vitamin C, echinacea or zinc to improve your immune system and fight chronic bronchitis. Talk with your doctor before taking a vitamin supplement.

• 2

  Limit your exposure to toxins. Certain toxins such as smoke and household chemicals can trigger bronchitis and slow down the recovery process. Avoid cigarette smoke; if possible, wear a face mask to protect your lungs and ease coughing.

• 3

  Increase your water intake. Drink water to loosen mucus in your chest and air passageway. Staying hydrated relieves chest congestion, and water can function as an expectorant.

• 4

  Take cough medicine. Cough suppressants relieve chronic coughing and ease symptoms of bronchitis (sore throat and chest congestion).

• 5

  Ease chest congestion with heat. Place a hot or warm cloth on your chest, or apply vapor rub to your chest. The warmth from the cloth or medicine relieves chest congestion and reduces coughing.

• 6

  Make a doctor's appointment. Although many cases of bronchitis respond to home remedies, severe cases of bronchitis may require medical attention. If a bacterial infection causes bronchitis symptoms, doctors will likely prescribe an antibiotic.