Acute bronchitis, which is a common respiratory condition caused by inflammation of the bronchial tubes, can often go away on its own without medical treatment. However, the duration of symptoms can vary from person to person, and in some cases, the symptoms may persist for several weeks.
Treatment for acute bronchitis typically involves managing the symptoms with rest, staying hydrated, using cough suppressants or expectorants, and avoiding irritants such as tobacco smoke. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed if the bronchitis is caused by a bacterial infection.
It’s important to note that chronic bronchitis, which is characterized by persistent cough and sputum production for at least three months in two consecutive years, is a more serious condition that requires medical treatment and lifestyle changes to manage effectively.