These stories are based on information gathered from health professionals and consumers. They may be helpful as you make important health decisions.

Paula, age 26: I was diagnosed with acute bronchitis after having the flu. Although I know people who have used antibiotics for this condition, my doctor explained that antibiotics would not be effective for acute bronchitis caused by a viral infection. She suggested I take cough medication for my cough if necessary. This made sense to me.

Josef, age 67: I have asthma. When I was diagnosed with acute bronchitis, my doctor felt that because of the asthma, and my age, that I was at risk for pneumonia. He suggested a course of antibiotics, and I agreed.

Theo, age 46: When I was diagnosed with acute bronchitis, I thought I'd get some antibiotics and that would be the end of it. My doctor explained that this might shorten my cough by a day but really would do no more. One day is not worth the hassle and cost of antibiotics, so I just used cough medicine.

Martha, age 52: I guess acute bronchitis usually goes away in a couple of weeks, so my doctor suggested I treat my symptoms at home. But it's been about a month and I'm still coughing and feeling bad. We are going to try some antibiotics.