How to get rid of bronchitis cough
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Effective Strategies to Get Rid of Bronchitis Cough
Bronchitis, characterized by inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often leads to persistent coughing. This article synthesizes research findings on effective strategies to alleviate bronchitis cough, focusing on both chronic and acute bronchitis.
Avoidance of Respiratory Irritants
Key Strategy: Avoidance
The most effective way to reduce or eliminate cough in patients with chronic bronchitis is to avoid respiratory irritants such as cigarette smoke, industrial pollutants, and other environmental pollutants. This approach addresses the root cause of inflammation in the airways .
Pharmacological Treatments
Inhaled Bronchodilators and Corticosteroids
For chronic bronchitis, inhaled bronchodilators such as short-acting β-agonists and ipratropium bromide, as well as oral theophylline, can improve cough symptoms. Additionally, a combination of long-acting β-agonists and inhaled corticosteroids has shown efficacy in reducing cough.
Antibiotics and Corticosteroids for Acute Exacerbations
During acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, inhaled bronchodilators, oral antibiotics, and corticosteroids (oral or intravenous) are recommended. These treatments help manage symptoms, although their direct impact on cough has not been systematically evaluated.
Antitussive Agents
For short-term relief, central cough suppressants like codeine and dextromethorphan are recommended. These agents provide symptomatic relief by suppressing the cough reflex.
Non-Pharmacological Interventions
Postural Drainage and Chest Physiotherapy
Despite their common use, postural drainage and chest physiotherapy are not recommended for treating chronic bronchitis cough due to a lack of proven benefit.
Cough Suppression Therapy
Cough suppression therapy, when performed by competent practitioners, can be highly effective. This approach involves techniques to reduce cough hypersensitivity, which is a common issue in chronic cough patients.
Acute Bronchitis Management
Limited Role of Antibiotics
For acute bronchitis, routine use of antibiotics is not justified and should be avoided. Antibiotics have shown limited clinical benefit and are associated with potential side effects and increased antibiotic resistance .
Symptomatic Relief
Antitussive agents can be used for short-term symptomatic relief in acute bronchitis. However, inhaled bronchodilators and expectorants are generally not recommended.
Special Considerations for Children
Persistent Bacterial Bronchitis
In children, persistent bacterial bronchitis is a common cause of chronic wet cough. Antibiotics can be curative in these cases, although the specific drug, dose, and duration need to be determined.
Asthma Medications
For children with chronic cough post-acute viral bronchiolitis, asthma medications such as inhaled steroids and beta2 agonists may be considered, although evidence is limited.
Conclusion
Effective management of bronchitis cough involves a combination of avoiding respiratory irritants, using appropriate pharmacological treatments, and considering non-pharmacological interventions. For acute bronchitis, antibiotics should be used sparingly, and symptomatic relief should be the focus. In children, addressing underlying causes such as persistent bacterial bronchitis is crucial. By following these strategies, patients can achieve significant relief from bronchitis cough.
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