Chronic bronchitis is an inflammation in the airways leading to and within the lungs (bronchial tubes). The inflammation may narrow these tubes, which makes it hard to breathe.
Chronic bronchitis causes a persistent cough that brings up mucus (sputum). Chronic bronchitis is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Chronic bronchitis gets worse over time. You cannot undo the damage to your lungs.
Over time, you may find that:
Over many years, the swelling and mucus from chronic bronchitis make it more likely that you will get lung infections.
But there are things you can do to prevent more damage and feel better.
The main symptoms of chronic bronchitis are:
At times, your symptoms may suddenly flare up and get much worse. This is a called an exacerbation (say "egg-ZASS-er-BAY-shun"). When this happens, your usual symptoms quickly get worse and stay bad. This can be dangerous. You may have to go to the hospital.
Chronic bronchitis is treated with medicines and oxygen. You also can take steps to stay healthy and keep your condition from getting worse.
If you smoke, quit or cut back as much as you can. Talk to your doctor if you need help quitting. Learn to use your inhalers correctly. This can mean fewer symptoms, fewer side effects, and better treatment. Try to avoid things that make your symptoms worse. And stay up to date on vaccines.
Bronchial tubes are airways that deliver air into the lungs. With chronic bronchitis, breathing in tobacco smoke and other irritants over time can make the airways inflamed. The airways make more mucus than normal. This reduces air flow and makes you cough. Over many years, damage to the lungs can grow worse and become a lifelong condition.
Chronic bronchitis is long-term swelling and the buildup of mucus in the airways of your lungs. The airways (bronchial tubes) get inflamed and make a lot of mucus. This can narrow or block the airways, making it hard for you to breathe. It can also make you cough. It is a type of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
Chronic bronchitis is usually caused by smoking. But chemical fumes, dust, or air pollution also can cause it over time.
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