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Perhaps, it can be difficult to distinguish the signs and symptoms of bronchitis from those of a common cold during the first few days of illness. In fact, most people who have a persistent cough after an upper respiratory infection (cold) do not need to see a health care provider. This is because diagnostic testing such as X-rays, cultures, and blood tests is not usually needed for people with acute bronchitis. However, testing may be recommended if your diagnosis is not clear based upon your examination, or if another condition like pneumonia is suspected.

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DIAGNOSIS

Generally, people who are older than 75 do not always have a fever or other concerning symptoms that may indicate a more serious infection. However, if you are over 75 years old and you have a persistent cough, then you should call your clinician to determine if and when an office visit is recommended. Needless to say, you should call your health care provider if you have any of the following occurs:

● Persistent fever or new fever.

● A cough that does not improve after 10 days or lasts longer than 20 days.

● A cough that worsens and is accompanied by new fever and new discolored mucus production (this may be the signs of a developing pneumonia).

● Chest pain with coughing, difficulty breathing, or coughing up blood.

● A barking cough that makes it hard to speak, especially if it persists.

● Cough accompanied by unexplained weight loss.

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TYPES OF TREATMENT

Most cases of acute bronchitis get better without treatment, usually within a couple of weeks. However, your doctor in some circumstances may recommend other medications, including:

● Cough medicine. If your cough keeps you from sleeping, you might try cough suppressants at bedtime.

● Other medications. If you have allergies, asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), your doctor may recommend an inhaler and other medications to reduce inflammation and open narrowed passages in your lungs.

● Antibiotics. Because most cases of acute bronchitis are caused by viral infections, antibiotics are not effective. However, if your doctor suspects that you have a bacterial infection, he or she may prescribe an antibiotic.

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Apart from that, hand washing is an essential and highly effective way to prevent the spread of infection. Wet your hands with water and plain soap and rub them together for 15 to 30 seconds. Pay special attention to the fingernails, between the fingers, and the wrists. Rinse your hands thoroughly, and dry with a single-use towel.

Alcohol-based hand rubs are a good alternative for disinfecting hands if a sink is not available. Spread the hand rub over the entire surface of your hands, fingers, and wrists until dry. You can use hand rubs repeatedly without irritating the skin or losing effectiveness. Hand rubs are available as a liquid or wipe in small, portable sizes that are easy to carry in a pocket or handbag. When a sink is available, you should wash visibly soiled hands with soap and water.

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Meanwhile, if you have chronic bronchitis, you may benefit from:

● Oxygen therapy. If you have severe chronic bronchitis, your body may not be getting enough oxygen and you will need supplemental oxygen. You may only need to use oxygen when performing physical activities, or you may need it all the time.

● Pulmonary rehabilitation therapy. This particular therapy involves learning different breathing techniques in order to improve your ability to exercise and carry out daily activities. You may also get nutrition and psychological advice so you can better take care of yourself and your condition.

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Finally, as if your chronic bronchitis worsens over time, you may need to use medications to help manage your symptoms. Such medications prescribed for chronic bronchitis include:

● Bronchodilators. These types of medications relax the muscles in your airways and make it easier for you to breathe. Simply put, bronchodilators reduce coughing and shortness of breath. You will use an inhaler to get the medication directly to your lungs. Depending on the severity of your disease, your doctor may recommend you to use the inhaler only as needed, or on a regular schedule.

● Inhaled corticosteroids. For severe chronic bronchitis, your doctor may prescribe an inhaler containing corticosteroids. These strong drugs, technically, fight inflammation and make it easier for you to breathe. Your inhaler may contain both corticosteroids and bronchodilators at the same time.