Overview

Bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to the lungs. The tubes swell and produce mucus, or phlegm. The mucus and inflamed bronchial tubes make you cough. You may have trouble breathing.

Most cases of bronchitis are caused by viruses like those that cause colds. Antibiotics most often do not help and they may cause harm.

Bronchitis usually develops rapidly and lasts about 2 to 3 weeks in people who are otherwise healthy.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Take all medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Get some extra rest.
• Take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve) to reduce fever and relieve body aches. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Do not take two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
• Take an over-the-counter cough medicine to help quiet a dry, hacking cough so that you can sleep. Avoid cough medicines that have more than one active ingredient. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Do not smoke. Smoking can make bronchitis worse. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.