Cough is a typical symptom of acute bronchitis and can last for several weeks even after the infection subsides, as the bronchial lining needs time to recover. Certain habits and inappropriate treatments can continue to irritate the airways, causing a prolonged cough. Dr. Nguyen Thac Dung, from the Department of Respiratory Medicine at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi, advises patients to avoid the following common mistakes.

Self-medicating with cough suppressants

When the bronchial lining becomes inflamed, the body increases mucus production and creates a productive cough to expel secretions and irritants from the airways. Arbitrarily using cough suppressants inhibits this cough reflex, making it difficult to clear phlegm. This can lead to mucus accumulation, further irritating the bronchial lining and increasing coughing as the body attempts to clear the airways.

Mucus containing bacteria, virus, or toxins trapped in the airways can exacerbate breathing difficulties. Patients should not self-medicate to completely stop a productive cough; instead, they should take medication only as prescribed by a doctor.

Patients should not self-medicate without a doctor's prescription. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*

Stopping medication prematurely

Medication for bronchitis typically lasts about 7 days or longer, depending on the condition and prescribed drugs. Many individuals tend to stop taking their medication once symptoms begin to lessen, even if they have only been using it for a few days and have not completed the doctor-prescribed course. This can prevent the illness from being fully controlled, leading to recurrent or prolonged symptoms, and making future treatment more challenging.

Insufficient hydration

During acute bronchitis, the bronchial lining becomes inflamed and produces more phlegm, stimulating the cough reflex. When the body is dehydrated, phlegm becomes thicker and more difficult to clear, causing patients to cough more frequently or for longer periods to clear their airways. Staying well-hydrated helps thin secretions and aids in expelling phlegm. Individuals with acute bronchitis should drink plenty of water during their recovery.

Overexertion and strenuous activity

When suffering from bronchitis, the body requires time and energy to recover from the infection and airway inflammation. Continuing to overwork or engage in strenuous physical activity while fatigued increases discomfort, exacerbates tiredness, and hinders full recovery. Therefore, adequate rest is one of the recommended care measures for patients with acute bronchitis.

Neglecting indoor humidity levels

An unsuitable humidity level in the living environment can prolong or worsen bronchitis symptoms. Overly dry air depletes moisture from the airway lining, irritating the bronchi and consequently increasing coughing, sore throat, and feelings of breathlessness.

Conversely, high humidity fosters the growth of mold and certain microorganisms indoors, which can intensify respiratory irritants. Patients should maintain indoor humidity at approximately 40-60% to minimize airway irritation and create a favorable environment for recovery.

If a cough persists for 3-4 weeks, worsens, or is accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, or prolonged fever, patients should seek medical attention to determine the cause and rule out pneumonia or other respiratory conditions.

Minh Duong