Recent illness that has lowered resistance. Elderly and very young age groups. Avoid close contact with persons who have bronchitis or upper respiratory infections. If you work with chemicals, dust or other lung irritants, wear an appropriate face mask. Diagnosis and Treatment General Measures Diagnosis is usually based on the symptoms but a sputum culture may be done to check for bacterial infection.
Treatment is directed toward relieving the symptoms.
If you are a smoker, don't smoke during your illness. This delays recovery and makes complications more likely. Increase air moisture. Take frequent hot showers. Non-prescription cough suppressants.