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(HealthDay News) -- Bronchitis is a viral or bacterial infection that causes inflammation of the bronchial tubes, making breathing more difficult.
The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute recommends these steps to help cope with bronchitis:
Get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids.
Adults may want to take aspirin for fever; acetaminophen (never aspirin) for children.
If your doctor suspects you have a bacterial infection, he or she may prescribe an antibiotic. An antibiotic will not help a viral infection, the most common cause of bronchitis.
Run a humidifier or sit in a steamy bathroom to help open the airways.
If your doctor approves, take a medication to control cough and inflammation.
Avoid exposure to things that irritate your lungs, especially tobacco smoke.