Bronchitis
Bronchitis generally refers to an acute inflammation of the air passages within your lungs. It occurs when your trachea (windpipe) and the large and small bronchi (airways) in your lungs become inflamed because of infection or other causes.
The thin mucous lining of these airways can become irritated and swollen.
The cells that make up this lining may leak fluids in response to the inflammation.
Coughing is a reflex that works to clear secretions from your lungs. Often the discomfort of a severe cough leads you to seek medical treatment.
Both adults and children can get bronchitis. Symptoms are similar for both.
Infants usually get cough and wheezing, which involves the smaller airways and causes symptoms similar to asthma.
Bronchitis Causes
Bronchitis also can occur when you inhale irritating fumes or dusts. Chemical solvents and smoke, including tobacco smoke, have been linked to acute bronchitis.
People at increased risk both of getting bronchitis and of having more severe symptoms include the elderly, those with weakened immune systems, smokers, and anyone with repeated exposure to lung irritants.
Bronchitis Symptoms
Acute bronchitis most commonly occurs after an upper respiratory infection such as the common cold or a sinus infection. Therefore, you may see symptoms such as fever with chills, muscle aches, nasal congestion, and sore throat.
Cough is a common symptom of bronchitis. The cough may be dry or may produce phlegm. Significant phlegm production suggests that your lower respiratory tract and the lung itself may be infected and you may have pneumonia.
The cough may last for more than two weeks. Continued forceful coughing may make your chest and abdominal muscles sore. Cough can be severe enough at times to injure the chest wall or even cause you to pass out.
Wheezing may occur because of the inflammation of your airways. This may leave you short of breath.
discomfort.
