Bronchitis is an inflammation of the air passages in the lungs and can cause breathing problems. There are two different types of bronchitis, either acute or chronic. The acute form of bronchitis is caused by and infection and can usually be cleared up with antibiotics. Some the symptoms of acute bronchitis are:

• Cough that produces mucus
• Burning sensation in the chest
• Wheezing
• Sore throat
• Fever
• Fatigue

The other form of bronchitis is chronic and usually means that a person will have it for at least 3 months of the year. This is often seen on smokers or in people who work with chemicals that can affect your airways. Some of the symptoms of chronic bronchitis are:

• Chronic cough that produces excessive amounts of mucus
• Wheezing, shortness of breath
• Blue-tinged lips
• Ankle, feet, and leg swelling

There are a number of different alternative therapies that can help with this. For example taking nutritional supplements like N-acetyl-cysteine and zinc are particularly beneficial. Other supplements that can help are bromelain, lactobacillus, quercetin, and vitamin C.

Herbal remedies could also be very beneficial and particular herbs you could consider are barberry, eucalyptus, peppermint, slippery elm, and stinging nettle among others. You could also consider homeopathic remedies, aromatherapy and acupuncture alongside conventional medicine.