Think you have bronchitis? You might not need an antibiotic.

Understanding acute bronchitis

Also known as a chest cold, acute bronchitis occurs when the airways of the lungs swell and produce mucus, triggering coughing. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a virus and can’t be cured with antibiotics. Symptoms can last for up to three weeks.

When to see your provider

The Centers for Disease Control recommends seeing your provider if you have or experience:

• An elevated temperature
• A cough with bloody mucus
• Shortness of breath
• Symptoms that last more than 3 weeks
• Repeated episodes of bronchitis

This list is not all-inclusive. Please see your doctor if your symptoms are severe or concerning. Also, keep in mind that taking unwarranted antibiotics can cause harm, ranging from a minor rash to serious conditions, such as antibiotic-resistant infections and an abdominal infection called C. diff that causes diarrhea and colon damage as a result of the loss of beneficial flora bacteria in the colon.

Tips to help you feel better

• Get plenty of rest.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Use a humidifier or cool mist vaporizer.
• Use saline spray for a stuffy nose.
• Breathe in steam from a shower or hot bowl of water.
• Suck on lozenges (not recommended for children under age 4).
• Take honey (not recommended for children under age 1).
• Ask your pharmacist to recommend over-the-counter cough/cold medications.

Thank you for considering this information before you request or take antibiotics that are not likely to help you get better.