Bronchitis, Acute Bronchitis

Overview of bronchitis course and treatment:

Aside from antibiotics which are usually prescribed and many times necessary for acute bronchitis, there are overall few options available to treat this condition directly in the acute phase. Most episodes of bronchitis will resolve without any specific treatment. Most of the treatment has been directed toward the symptoms as the illness continues to run its course. Over the counter expectorants, decongestants, and cough suppressants treat symptoms but do not reduce the duration of bronchitis. By taking measures to prevent the common cold, in turn bronchitis may also be prevented since it often occurs as progression of viral infection or secondary bacterial infection after viral illness. Please see the section on prevention and treatment of “common cold”.