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Acute bronchitis

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Alternative Names:

Bronchitis - acute

Prevention:

Good handwashing is one of the best ways to avoid getting viruses and other respiratory infections.

Since flu viruses have been shown to be a major cause of bronchitis, getting a flu shot may also help prevent acute bronchitis.

Limit your exposure to cold, damp environments. When combined with air pollution or tobacco smoke, the cold and damp may make you more likely to get bronchitis.

References:

Knutson D. Diagnosis and Management of Acute Bronchitis. Am Fam Physician . May 2002; 65(10): 2039-44.

Aagaard E. Management of Acute Bronchitis in Healthy Adults. Infect Dis Clin North Am . Dec 2004; 18(4): 919-37.

American Academy of Pediatrics. Cough Illness/Bronchitis. In: Pickering LK, ed. Red Book: 2003 Report of the Committee on Infectious Diseases . 26th ed. Elk Grove Village, IL: American Academy of Pediatrics; 2003:696.

Braman SS. Chronic Cough Due to Chronic Bronchitis: ACCP Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines. Chest . January 2006;129(1 Suppl):104S-115S.

• Review Date: 5/20/2007
• Reviewed By: Allen J. Blaivas, D.O., Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Veteran Affairs, VA New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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