Bronchite

Bronchite is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry air to and from the lungs. This inflammation causes the lining of the tubes to swell and produce excess mucus, which can obstruct airflow and make breathing difficult. Bronchite can be acute or chronic.

Acute bronchite is a short-term illness, often developing from a cold or other respiratory infection. Symptoms typically include a cough that may produce mucus, chest soreness, fatigue, and a slight fever. It usually resolves within a few weeks, although the cough can linger for longer. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and may involve rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications for cough and fever. Antibiotics are generally not effective as acute bronchite is most often caused by viruses.

Chronic bronchite is a long-term condition, defined as a productive cough that lasts for at least three months a year for two consecutive years. It is often caused by irritants such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, or dust and chemical fumes. Chronic bronchite is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Symptoms include persistent cough with mucus, shortness of breath, wheezing, and frequent chest infections. Management aims to slow the progression of the disease, relieve symptoms, and prevent complications. This may involve avoiding irritants, medication, pulmonary rehabilitation, and oxygen therapy in severe cases.