Rest and drink plenty of fluids
Use a humidifier or take warm showers to ease coughing and congestion
Use honey for cough (avoid for children under 1 year)
Use saline nasal spray or rinse to reduce post-nasal drip
Consider over-the-counter options as needed:
Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever or aches (if safe for you)
Guaifenesin to help loosen mucus
Dextromethorphan for cough suppression (follow label; avoid in certain conditions/meds)
Throat lozenges or warm tea for throat irritation
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
Avoid strong fumes and air pollutants
Take prescribed medications as directed if you have asthma/COPD or were given an inhaler
Seek medical care urgently if you have:
Trouble breathing, wheezing that is worsening, or chest pain
Coughing up blood
High fever (e.g., 103°F/39.4°C or higher) or fever lasting more than 3 days
Symptoms lasting longer than 3 weeks or rapidly worsening
Dehydration, confusion, or severe weakness
You are pregnant, immunocompromised, or have significant heart/lung disease
Ask a clinician about whether you need antibiotics (most bronchitis is viral and does not benefit from antibiotics)