Various bronchitis medications and other treatment options

Bronchitis is inflammation that occurs in the bronchial tubes (bronchi), which are the tubes that carry air to and from your lungs. This condition can be divided into two, namely acute and chronic. Different types of bronchitis, different ways of dealing with it. The following reviews about bronchitis drugs and treatment by type.

What are the treatment options for treating bronchitis?

Bronchitis consists of acute and chronic bronchitis. The symptoms of the two types of bronchitis are almost the same. The most striking difference between the two is seen from the time period they occurred.

Each bronchitis has its own causes, so the way to treat it is not the same. Here is a bronchitis treatment based on the type.

Treatment of acute bronchitis

Acute bronchitis is a temporary inflammation of the airways that will cause a cough with sputum. This condition can last for days or weeks. Acute bronchitis can affect people of all ages. However, this condition generally affects children under five.

Usually, symptoms of acute bronchitis, such as lightheadedness and muscle aches, should improve in about a week without any medication. Although the symptoms have improved somewhat, bronchitis treatment to relieve cough is usually carried out for 3 weeks.

The following treatments are used to treat acute bronchitis:

Medicines for acute bronchitis

Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a viral infection. So, antibiotics will not work to cure it. However, you may be given antibiotics if your doctor suspects that your acute bronchitis is the result of a bacterial infection.

Quoted from the American Family Physician, antibiotics can be prescribed if pertussis is suspected as the cause of your cough and bronchitis you experience. In such conditions, antibiotics must be given immediately to prevent transmission.

Antibiotic drugs will not reduce the symptoms of acute bronchitis. However, still in the same source, antibiotics have been shown to reduce the risk of pneumonia later in life.

For the treatment of acute bronchitis, medications that are usually given include:

• Cough medicine, if your cough interferes with your rest periods.
• Other medicines that can treat allergies, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, such as inhalers or other medicines to reduce inflammation and open your airways.

Natural remedies

Natural remedies are often an alternative option for treating acute bronchitis. Several studies have found the benefits of echinacea, pelargonium, and honey.

Chronic bronchitis medication

Chronic bronchitis is a type of inflammation with a cough that's worse than acute bronchitis. People with chronic bronchitis usually have a daily cough that lasts for at least 3 months and lasts for years.

Usually, people with chronic bronchitis can experience recurrences for at least 2 consecutive years. Therefore, the treatment lasts as long as the symptoms of bronchitis are still quite strong, that is, in a matter of months to years.

Some people with very serious cases of chronic bronchitis may even need lifelong treatment. The main goals of chronic bronchitis treatment are to relieve symptoms, prevent bronchitis complications, and slow the progression of the disease. Meanwhile, the main goals of therapy are to reduce excessive mucus production, control inflammation, and reduce coughing.

Chronic bronchitis medication

Quoted from the National Center for Biotechnology Information, various drugs that are usually used to treat chronic bronchitis are:

• Bronchodilators, namely drugs that help loosen the airway, improve cilia function, and increase the hydration of mucus (mucus).
• Glucocorticoids, which is a drug that works to reduce inflammation and the formation of mucus.
• Antibiotics this type of macrolide has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that may play a role in the treatment of chronic bronchitis.
• Phosphodiesterase-5 Inhibitors, namely drugs that can reduce inflammation and promote relaxation of the muscles in the airways.

Quit smoking

The most important and effective non-medical treatment in managing chronic bronchitis is smoking cessation. This is one of the main ways to keep your lungs healthy and prevent disease. Deciding to continue smoking can increase your risk of developing bronchitis in the future.

After you commit to quitting smoking, you can take part in therapy that can help you completely get rid of the bad habit. The doctor may also encourage family members and people closest to you to support, assist, and help your intention until it finally works.

Pulmonary rehabilitation

Pulmonary rehabilitation is an important step in managing chronic bronchitis. Pulmonary rehabilitation consists of a series of activities, from education, lifestyle improvement, regular physical activity, to avoiding exposure to pollutants.

What are the types of lifestyle that can help with bronchitis?

Apart from medical drugs and other medications, adopting a healthy lifestyle is also an important thing to do if you have bronchitis.

Here are some healthy lifestyles that can help prevent your bronchitis from getting worse:

• Quit smoking.
• Avoid things that can irritate the lungs, such as pollution, inhalation of cigarette smoke, and dust.
• Use a mask when traveling outside the house.
• Wash your hands with running water and soap or alcohol-based hand sanitizer to reduce your risk of getting the virus.
• Follow a healthy diet to prevent lung infections.
• Regular exercise specifically for mild bronchitis to avoid obesity, which can make it more difficult for you to breathe.

The length of treatment and medications you take will depend on the type of bronchitis you are experiencing. In addition, the regularity of taking the medication prescribed by the doctor and the adoption of a healthy lifestyle also affects the healing process. Make sure you follow all the doctor's recommendations for optimal healing.