Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional

December, 2019

What can I do to reduce my risk of getting bronchitis?

Don't smoke.
Insist that others do not smoke in your home.
Stay away from or try to reduce your time around things that irritate your airway (nose, throat, and lungs). Irritants can include dust, mold, pet dander, air pollution, smoke, and cleaners.
If you catch a cold, get plenty of rest.
Take your medicine exactly the way your doctor tells you.
Eat a healthy diet.
Wash your hands often. Use soap and water. If you are not able to use soap and water, use a hand sanitizer that contains alcohol.
Make sure you are up-to-date on the flu and pneumonia vaccines.