10 Essential Tips to Manage Lung Infections at Home

Lung infections are common illnesses of the lower respiratory tract. They are sometimes known as pulmonary infections. They can make the affected person feel very unwell and may become chronic and potentially debilitating. Lung infections usually last longer than infections of the upper respiratory tract and can become very serious and even life-threatening. For this reason, it's important to seek prompt treatment for symptoms that may indicate an infected lung.

1. Bronchitis

Bronchitis is one of the two main types of lung infection. It occurs when the bronchi -- the larger airways within the lungs -- become infected and inflamed. Bronchitis is usually a viral infection. Symptoms include a persistent cough that produces mucus. Infected individuals may feel wheezy and short of breath. They are also likely to feel pain and discomfort in the chest. Most people with bronchitis will get the acute form, which lasts for a few weeks. However, some people develop chronic bronchitis. This means they experience recurrent bouts of bronchitis lasting for months at a time.

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