Bronchitis is a respiratory infection that usually occurs in conjunction with the common cold or flu. Its characteristic symptoms are a burning or tingling sensation in the lungs, sore throat and cough that yields yellow or green mucus. Mild to moderate cases of bronchitis will clear up in 1 to 3 weeks on their own. However, medication may be used to ease the discomfort of symptoms or treat a lingering or more severe infection.
Cough Medicine
Over-the-counter cough medications, such as Robitussin or Vicks, can be used to lessen the discomfort of the cough associated with bronchitis. NyQuil and other combination sleep aids and cough suppressants are also useful to keep the cough from disrupting sleep.
Expectorants
Nonprescription expectorants, such as Mucinex, are worth using if the mucus created by the infection is not evacuating easily in the coughs.
Throat Soothers
Some individuals may find throat lozenges helpful in medicating bronchitis to reduce throat soreness and irritation caused by frequent coughing and passing of mucus.
Temporary Inhalers
In severe bronchitis infections, a doctor may prescribe a temporary inhaler to keep airways clear and reduce breathlessness.
Antibiotics
If an individual is experiencing a persistent infection that lasts more than a month, a doctor may prescribe an antibiotic to assist the body in clearing up the infection. Antibiotics are most often given to individuals who have compromised immune systems or are smokers.
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