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Chronic bronchitis    See images

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Treatment

There is no cure for chronic bronchitis. Treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing complications. Smoking and all other respiratory irritants should be avoided. Inhaled medications that may dilate the airways such as ipratropium bromide or albuterol may help reduce symptoms such as wheezing. Antibiotics are prescribed for infections, as needed. Respiratory treatments including nebulizers and postural drainage facilitate the removal of thick mucus from the airways. Corticosteroids may occasionally be used during flares of wheezing or in those with severe disease not responding to the above treatments. Physical exercise programs, breathing exercises, and patient education programs all contribute to the treatment plan. Oxygen therapy may be needed in severe cases.

Prognosis

The chance for recovery is poor for advanced disease. Early recognition and treatment combined with smoking cessation improves the chance of a good outcome significantly.

Complications

• Acute bronchitis
• Pneumonia
• Cor pulmonale
• Emphysema
• Cardiac arrhythmia

Call Your Health Care Provider If:

Call your health care provider if respiratory infection or unexplained symptoms develop, or you are short of breath, wheezing, or coughing up blood.

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