Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes that carry air to your lungs. Symptoms can include coughing, chest congestion, shortness of breath, and wheezing. Clearing your chest with bronchitis can help relieve your symptoms and make it easier to breathe. Here are some things you can do:
- Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated helps to loosen mucus and make it easier to cough up. Drink water, tea, and other fluids throughout the day.
- Use a humidifier: A humidifier can add moisture to the air, which can help relieve chest congestion. Make sure to clean your humidifier regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria.
- Take a steamy shower: The steam from a shower can help loosen mucus and relieve chest congestion. Breathe in the steam for 10-15 minutes, taking deep breaths to help clear your chest.
- Try chest physiotherapy: Chest physiotherapy is a technique that involves clapping or vibrating the chest to help loosen mucus. This is typically done by a trained therapist, but you can also learn how to do it yourself.
- Use expectorants: Expectorants are medications that help thin mucus and make it easier to cough up. They are available over-the-counter and come in pill, liquid, or inhaler form.
- Avoid irritants: Avoiding irritants like cigarette smoke and air pollution can help reduce inflammation in your bronchial tubes and make it easier to breathe.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to see a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.
