Acapella Choice Positive Expiratory Pressure (PEP) Device

Acute bronchitis (often viral): Symptomatic treatment (rest, hydration, cough suppressants, expectorants, inhalers, humidifiers) Chronic bronchitis (COPD): Bronchodilators, steroids, pulmonary rehab, and sometimes antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections

See your healthcare provider: Confirm diagnosis and safe treatment Natural remedies: Rest, increase fluids, use a humidifier, saline nasal sprays Safe medications (if needed): Acetaminophen for pain/fever, pregnancy-safe inhalers (as prescribed) Avoid all over-the-counter cold medicines unless approved by your OB/GYN

Do not smoke or expose yourself to secondhand smoke Avoid irritants: dust, perfumes, chemical fumes Don’t overuse cough suppressants (coughing helps clear mucus) Don’t ignore chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or bloody mucus; seek prompt care Don’t return to strenuous activity too soon

Rest is essential, especially in the early days, but short walks and movement when you feel up to it help circulation and recovery. Don’t push too hard—listen to your body.

Rest and maintain good hydration Use a cool-mist humidifier Try honey (if not allergic, and never for infants under 1) Take prescribed inhalers or bronchodilators for wheezing Clear nasal and chest congestion with saline mist, steam, or expectorants

Yes. Bronchitis increases upper respiratory mucus and inflammation, which may cause eustachian tube dysfunction, leading to ear pain or pressure.

Avoid dairy (may worsen mucus for some) Limit processed foods, fried foods, and sugar Reduce caffeine and alcohol, which cause dehydration Avoid spicy and very salty foods if throat is sore

Elevate your head and upper chest with extra pillows to reduce coughing and promote mucus drainage. Side-sleeping or semi-reclined positions help ease nighttime breathing.

Avoid strenuous exercise while acutely ill. Mild movement/walking is beneficial as you recover. Return to normal workouts only when fever has resolved and your cough is improving.

Use doctor-prescribed inhalers or expectorants Try steamy showers or humidifiers to loosen phlegm Cough up mucus as needed Contact your doctor if crackles persist, worsen, or are accompanied by shortness of breath or chest pain

Lying flat allows mucus to settle and narrows your airways, causing wheezing and coughing. Sleeping with your chest elevated helps.

Severe or chronic bronchitis increases strain on the heart, especially in people with preexisting heart or lung disease. Seek care for chest pain, rapid heart rate, or fainting.

Low oxygen levels and dehydration can cause dizziness with bronchitis. Frequent severe coughing can also drop blood pressure. Seek care if dizziness persists or worsens.

Progression to pneumonia Respiratory failure in severe cases Exacerbation of underlying COPD or heart disease Prolonged or recurrent infections in the elderly or immune-compromised

Cough suppressants (dextromethorphan) & expectorants (guaifenesin) Inhalers (albuterol sulfate, ipratropium) for wheeze Steroid inhalers for chronic or severe cases Antibiotics (only for clear bacterial infections) Antiviral medication (rare, for specific viral causes and high-risk patients) Natural therapies: honey, ginger, steam inhalation

Rest, hydrate, use a humidifier Avoid smoke and triggers Eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet Practice breathing exercises for lung recovery