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The goal of treatment for bronchitis is to control symptoms, ease breathing, and minimize the development of complications, such as pneumonia.
One key treatment and prevention for both chronic bronchitis and acute bronchitis is to quit smoking. It is also important to eliminate or minimize exposure to potential lung irritants that can lead to or worsen bronchitis.
Chronic bronchitis is treated with medications, including bronchodilators and corticosteroids, which are inhaled into the lungs using a device called an inhaler. Bronchodilators help to relax and open up the lower airways in the lungs and corticosteroids reduce airway inflammation.
Chronic bronchitis that results in low levels of oxygen in the blood may be treated with oxygen therapy, in which extra oxygen is administered through nasal prongs or a mask. Supplemental oxygen can help relieve the shortness of breath and ensure that the vital organs, such as the heart and the brain, get enough oxygen. Concentrations of oxygen and the types of devices used vary depending on the severity of an individual's condition.
Pulmonary rehabilitation is another form of treatment for chronic bronchitis. It can involve a medically supervised exercise program, disease management training, and nutritional and psychological counseling to help improve overall health and quality of life. There are also a variety of surgeries, including lung transplant, which may be considered in very severe cases.
Mild cases of acute bronchitis are treated with supportive care, such as getting plenty of rest and fluids and using a humidifier. Over-the-counter or prescription medications are recommended to relieve pain, fever, and cough. If acute bronchitis is caused by a bacterial infection, an antibiotic will be prescribed as well. If there is shortness of breath, a bronchodilator may be needed.
Moderate to severe acute bronchitis may result in low levels of oxygen in the blood and require hospitalization, intravenous antibiotic administration, and oxygen therapy.
It is also vital to prevent common diseases that can seriously complicate both forms of bronchitis and become life threatening. These include influenza and pneumonia, which can often be prevented with vaccines.
The list of treatments mentioned in various sources for Bronchitis includes the following list. Always seek professional medical advice about any treatment or change in treatment plans.
Alternative treatments or home remedies that have been listed as possibly helpful for Bronchitis may include:
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Note:You must always seek professional medical advice about any prescription drug, OTC drug, medication, treatment or change in treatment plans.
Some of the different medications used in the treatment of Bronchitis include:
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