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Bronchitis

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Alternative Names:

Inflammation - bronchi

Prevention:

• Wash your hands (and your children's hands) frequently to avoid spreading viruses and other infections.
• DO NOT smoke.
• Get an annual flu vaccine and a pneumococcal vaccine as directed by your doctor.
• Minimize exposure to air pollutants.

References:

Murray JF, Nadel JA. Textbook of Respiratory Medicine . 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders; 2000; 1215-1216.

Macfarlane J, Holmes W, Gard P, Thornhill D, Macfarlane R, Hubbard R. Providing patient information reduces antibiotic use in acute bronchitis. Evidence-based Healthcare. 2002; 6(3): 130.

Radon K. Passive smoke exposure: a risk factor for chronic bronchitis and asthma in adults? Chest . 2002; 122(3): 1086-1090.

GOLD Scientific Committee. Global Strategy for the Diagnosis, Management, and Prevention of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: GOLD Executive Summary updated 2006.

• Review Date: 8/3/2007
• Reviewed By: Allen J. Blaivas, DO, 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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