How to stop coughing in acute bronchitis?

Written by Han Shun Li
Pulmonology
Updated on September 01, 2024
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Acute bronchitis is an acute inflammation of the bronchial mucosa caused by various pathogenic factors, with coughing being one of the common symptoms of acute bronchitis. So, how can patients stop coughing when they have acute bronchitis? If the cough is dry or there is little phlegm, antitussive and cough suppressant medications can be used. If the cough produces phlegm that is hard to expel, medications that thin the mucus should be chosen. Treatment can be administered orally or through nebulization. Additionally, drinking more water and having a lighter diet can also help suppress the cough.

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Written by Han Shun Li
Pulmonology
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Is acute bronchitis curable?

Acute bronchitis is a relatively common clinical condition. Patients often experience symptoms such as coughing and expectoration. Some may have chest tightness, shortness of breath, blood in sputum, and fever. Generally, after contracting acute bronchitis, it is important to rest, stay hydrated, avoid fatigue, and avoid getting chilled. Regarding medications, if there is a cough without sputum, cough suppressants can be used. If there is excessive sputum, expectorants should be used. For chest tightness and shortness of breath, asthma medication is needed, and antipyretic analgesics are used for fever to relieve symptoms. Additionally, if there is evidence of bacterial infection, antibiotic treatment should be used under the guidance of a physician and not purchased privately. Generally, with the aforementioned treatments, most patients can be cured with a good prognosis.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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What to eat with acute bronchitis

For the diet of acute bronchitis, one should choose light, soft foods that are rich in vitamins and have a higher fiber content, such as fruits and vegetables. During a fever, the diet should primarily consist of liquid or semi-liquid foods, such as vegetable soup, millet porridge, dumpling soup, noodles, etc. Remember, during the acute phase of inflammation, do not consume overly greasy or high-calorie foods, avoid large amounts of meat and fish, and also refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol. Drink plenty of water, maintain fresh indoor air, and ensure proper ventilation and disinfection of indoor air.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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How to manage acute bronchitis

First, it is important to rest in bed during the acute phase, drink plenty of water, keep warm, and the main principle is to control the infection and provide symptomatic treatment. For instance, patients with significant fever and those whose sputum has turned purulent should choose antibiotics early, such as intramuscular penicillin injections or oral co-trimoxazole. Generally, the medication can be stopped 1-3 days after the fever subsides. For symptomatic treatment, antipyretic analgesics such as aspirin can be used to address symptoms like fever, headache, and general fatigue. Regularly, one should strengthen their cold resistance through exercise, it is suggested to wash the face with cold water throughout the year, and to exercise more to boost immune capabilities. Pay attention to environmental hygiene, improve occupational and public health standards. Prevent the inhalation of irritant gases and dust into the respiratory tract. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor based on specific circumstances.)

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Written by Hu Bai Yu
Pulmonology
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What should be avoided with acute bronchitis?

Patients with acute bronchitis should be cautious about not consuming spicy and greasy foods such as chili peppers, black pepper, mustard, onions, ginger, and garlic. These foods have certain irritants that might worsen the condition of acute bronchitis, hinder recovery, and increase the difficulty of treatment. Additionally, it's important to avoid greasy foods as they are high in calories and not easily digestible, which could burden the digestive system. Consuming such foods might cause gastrointestinal discomfort, symptoms of which may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, or bloating. Therefore, it's advised to steer clear of both spicy and greasy foods. Also, beverages like carbonated drinks, strong tea, and coffee should be avoided as they contain substances that could be irritating and may adversely affect overall health, not conducive to the patient's rest.

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Written by Han Shun Li
Pulmonology
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Acute Bronchitis Clinical Symptoms

Acute bronchitis is a relatively common disease. The common symptoms include coughing and expectoration. Typically, it begins with a dry cough, or with a small amount of mucous sputum, which gradually turns into mucopurulent or purulent sputum, and the amount of sputum gradually increases. The coughing may worsen, and occasionally, the sputum may be tinged with blood. Some patients may also experience fever and wheezing. Generally, coughing and expectoration can last for two to three weeks.