Bronchitis, Viral (Adult; No Abx)
You have a viral bronchitis. This illness is contagious during the first few days and is spread through the air by coughing and sneezing, or by direct contact (touching the sick person and then touching your own eyes, nose, or mouth).
Most viral illnesses resolve within 10-14 days with rest and simple home remedies, although they may sometimes last for several weeks. Antibiotics will not kill a virus and are generally not prescribed for this condition.
HOME CARE:
If symptoms are severe, rest at home for the first 2-3 days. When resuming activity, don't let yourself become overly tired.
Do not smoke and avoid the smoke of others.
You may use acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) to control fever or pain, unless another pain medicine was prescribed. [NOTE : If you have chronic liver or kidney disease or ever had a stomach ulcer or GI bleeding, talk with your doctor before using these medicines.] (Aspirin should never be used in anyone under 18 years of age who is ill with a fever. It may cause severe liver damage.)
Your appetite may be poor so a light diet is fine. Avoid dehydration by drinking 6-8 glasses of fluids per day (water, sport drinks such as Gatorade, juices, tea, soup, etc.). Extra fluids will help loosen secretions in the nose and lung.
Over-the-counter cold medicines will not shorten the length of the illness, but may be helpful for cough (Robitussin DM), sore throat (Chloraseptic lozenges or spray), nasal and sinus congestion (Actifed or Sudafed). [NOTE: Do not use decongestants if you have high blood pressure.]
FOLLOW UP with your doctor or as directed by our staff if you are not improving over the next week.
NOTE: If you are age 65 or older, or if you have chronic asthma or COPD, we recommend a PNEUMOCOCCAL VACCINATION every five years and a yearly INFLUENZA VACCINATION (FLU-SHOT) every autumn. Ask your doctor about this. If you had an X-ray, a radiologist will review it. You will be notified of any new findings that may affect your care.]
GET PROMPT MEDICAL ATTENTION if any of the following occur:
Fever over 100.4°F (38.0°C) for more than three days
Trouble breathing, wheezing or pain with breathing
Coughing up blood or increased amounts of colored sputum
Weakness, drowsiness, headache, facial pain, ear pain or a stiff neck
© 2000-2012 Krames StayWell, 780 Township line Road, Yardley, PA 19067. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.