Most people with acute bronchitis will recover on their own without treatment. This type of lung infection usually clears up in around three weeks. Plenty of rest and lots of fluids are essential until the individual is feeling better. Over-the-counter painkillers can generally deal with symptoms such as pain and fever. Some people find cough medicines and hot honey and lemon drinks helpful. Doctors do not usually prescribe antibiotics for bronchitis because it most often has a viral cause. However, antibiotics can help prevent the infection from progressing to pneumonia in people considered at high risk.

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