4 ways to shorten the duration of bronchitis

Bronchitis is usually very uncomfortable and can become very serious. Here are some simple tips for easing your symptoms and shortening the duration of bronchitis.

• Any kind of air pollutants can irritate your lungs and exacerbate your bronchitis. If you are suffering from bronchitis, avoid smoking at all costs. Even second hand smoke can be very harmful.
• You should also avoid any strong scents such as perfumes, scented candles and any kind of aerosol or spray that can hurt your upper respiratory system.

• You already know that you need to get a good night's sleep every night to feel your best, but it's especially important when you're fighting off an infection.
• Take it easy on your body and get extra sleep while you are recovering. Sleep helps your body restore itself and heal, and is more important than ever while you're feeling under the weather.

• You need your rest while you're recovering but it's also good to get some light exercise. A little exercise can actually make you feel better. Just don't overdo it.
• Gentle exercise such as walking outside or on a treadmill for 30 minutes a day will help keep your lungs strong and help you get healthier. However, your body is in a weakened state when you're fighting off an infection so you don't want to push yourself too hard.
• If light exercise causes difficulty breathing, worsens your cough, or tires you out excessively, stop exercising and make sure to rest.

• There are a variety of medicines that can help you recover more quickly from bronchitis. Talk to your doctor about what type of medicine would be helpful for you.
• Some over-the-counter medication can help give you relief from your symptoms and, if you do have an infection, an antibiotic may be required.

• Steam can be very helpful when dealing with bronchitis. Steam helps your body to break down the mucous in your lungs so you can cough it out.
• To make a steam tent, pour boiling water into a heat-resistant bowl, position your face a foot or so above it, and drape a towel over your head to keep the steam in. Inhale for several minutes.
• You can also take a hot shower or bath for a lighter steam.

If your bronchitis symptoms persist for an extended period of time, see your doctor. While acute bronchitis usually resolves itself fairly quickly, chronic bronchitis can be lead to more serious disease.