Chest cold appointments

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About Chest cold

A chest cold - the common name for acute bronchitis - is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes (the tubes that carry air to and from your lungs). This inflammation can cause you to cough up thick, discolored mucus.

Acute bronchitis is generally caused by a viral infection, such as a common cold. Symptoms of a chest cold include:

  • Frequent coughing
  • Mucus production
  • Wheezing
  • Fever
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Chills
  • Headaches and/ or body aches

Most cases of acute bronchitis clear up in 7-10 days. The infection is usually fairly mild and rarely requires medical attention. Even though chest colds are relatively easy to manage, they can be contagious if they have been caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Viral infections are especially common, and cannot be treated with antibiotic medication. Because of this, it is important that you avoid contact with other people and practice good hygiene to reduce the risk of the infection spreading. Germs that cause chest colds can be spread through the air, or via surfaces such as door handles. To prevent infection, or mitigate the spread of infection, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and stay home from work and away from others when you’re sick.

Treatment for a chest cold varies depending on the severity and cause of the infection. Below is a list of common methods used to treat chest colds. During your appointment, talk to your health care provider about the treatment plan that is right for you.

Most chest colds are caused by a viral infection, which will not respond to antibiotic therapy. Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter cough medicine to treat symptoms associated with a chest cold. An expectorant cough medicine (such as guaifenesin, otherwise known as Mucinex) helps break up mucus, making it easier to produce while coughing. This can improve your breathing and reduce wheezing. Additionally, your doctor may recommend that you pair cough medication with over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), to relieve discomfort and reduce fever-like symptoms caused by a chest cold.

If your doctor suspects the infection is being caused by bacteria - a rarer occurrence - you may be prescribed antibiotics as treatment.

There are a number of simple methods you can do at home to relieve symptoms of a chest cold and prevent further infection. These include:

  • Drink plenty of fluids.
  • Rest.
  • Avoid social contact with others
  • Don’t smoke and avoid secondhand smoke.
  • Use a humidifier to moisten the air in your home. This helps relieve coughing and loosen mucus in the lungs.
  • Drink a non-caffeinated herbal tea with lemon and honey to soothe irritated air pathways.
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  3. Range, AL
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