{xtypo_dropcap}T{/xtypo_dropcap}he most obvious symptom of bronchitis is coughing. The bronchi (the main branching passageways of the lungs) become inflamed. The cough associated with bronchitis usually starts off dry and hacking, then becomes rattling. It generally produces grayish or yellow mucous, and is often accompanied by wheezing or mild shortness of breath.
Bronchitis has two main varieties: acute (sudden) and chronic (continuing). Acute bronchitis is usually a complication of a viral infection. With acute bronchitis, the cough may linger three or more weeks, and in most cases, eventually goes away on its own. Chronic bronchitis, however, usually lasts at least three months and produces the mucousy cough. Symptoms intensify over time and include breathlessness and wheezing. While there are many conventional and alternative treatments for chronic bronchitis, the best treatments are to quit smoking and to avoid air pollutants.
Herbal supplements, while not a cure, have proven helpful in relieving some of the symptoms of bronchitis. The most effective herb is Licorice. As an expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral, it soothes the mucous membranes and stimulates cells to produce interferon. Interferon is the body's own antiviral compound. Mullein assists in the expulsion of mucous, if the cough is wet. If it is a dry cough, Mullein relieves the pain from hacking. Garlic has been used for many years to fight bacteria and some of the viruses that cause colds and flu. When eaten, the oils from Garlic are excreted through the lungs, killing microrganisms and helping to expel mucous. Wild Cherry Bark has been shown to inhibit the cough reflex, but should be used only for dry, hacking coughs. Wild Cherry Bark is safe for short-term use, but is not recommended for long-term use. Echinacea is perhaps the most popular and well-known herbal remedy on the market. Used to alleviate symptoms of bronchitis, this herb stimulates white blood cell activity and, like Licorice, increases the body's production of interferon. It helps the immune cells destroy invading microbes and fights some of the viruses that are known to cause bronchitis.
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