Bronchitis occurs when the air passages to the lungs become inflamed. Acute bronchitis caused by a virus or bacteria will usually go away on its own. However, chronic bronchitis is a more serious condition caused by smoking or inhaling too many irritants and can lead to complications. According to the American Lung Association, in 2007 more than 7.5 million Americans reported receiving a diagnosis of chronic bronchitis from their physicians. Fortunately, you can take steps to alleviate symptoms and speed your recovery.
Extra Sleep
Get plenty of rest, and sleep as much as you can. Your body needs time to heal. Sleep gives your body the opportunity to recover from illness. Although it's natural to feel rather fatigued at times when you have bronchitis, lack of adequate rest can leave you feeling worse. Even when you have trouble falling asleep, still lie down and try to relax. Stay in bed until your fever breaks and remains normal for 24 hours without treatment. Gradually build yourself up to your normal activity level after you start feeling better.
Moist Air
Put a humidifier in the room where you will be spending most of your time while recovering. Warm, moist air can help to alleviate some of your symptoms and get you feeling better faster. Humidifying the air keeps you from coughing as much, which may ease some of your other aches and pains. It also loosens mucus so that your lungs can clear and you can begin to breath easy again. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning the humidifier to keep bacteria from growing.
Herbal Tea
Prepare a ginger-clove-cinnamon tea by mixing ¼ teaspoon of each ingredient with two cups of hot water. Steep for three to five minutes. Drink the tea while it's still hot to break up mucus. The herbs have ingredients high in terpenes, compounds known for combating bacteria and viruses. These herbs also help improve blood circulation, which aids the body in recovering from infections faster. Blood gets nutrients and white blood cells to where they are needed to help fight infection. Talk to your doctor first before taking these or any other herbal remedies. While most herbs are generally safe to use, some people suffer allergic reactions. Some herbs can interact with other medications you may be taking.
Avoid Environmental Irritants
Keep bronchitis from getting worse by avoiding things that may exacerbate your condition. Don't smoke. What's more, quit smoking to prevent future infections. Avoid being in places or near people where you will be exposed to second-hand cigarette smoke. Doctors at the Mayo Clinic point out that exposure to second-hand smoke increases your risk of chronic bronchitis, especially if you have other risk factors. When irritants that can aggravate your symptoms are present in the air, such as household cleaners or tobacco smoke, use an air purifier so you can breathe in cleaner air. Wear a face mask that covers your mouth and nose to reduce your risk of infection whenever you are around others who have a cold, flu or other viral infection.
