Disease Symptoms » Bronchitis

Bronchitis is an acute inflammation of the air passages within the lungs. It occurs when the trachea windpipe and the large and small bronchi (airways) within the 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 the 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 bronchiolitis which involves the smaller airways and causes symptoms similar to asthma.

Bronchitis is an infection of the main airways of the lungs(bronchi), in which they become irritated and inflamed. It is common in winter, and often develops following a cold, sore throat or influenza (flu). Anyone can be affected by bronchitis, although smokers and those who work with substances that can irritate the lungs, such as grains or textiles, are more likely to get the condition. The main symptom of bronchitis is a cough, which may bring up yellowy grey mucus. Bronchitis may also cause a sore throat,wheezing and a blocked nose. Bronchitis is usually a mild and self-limiting condition, which means that it clears up by itself, usually within a couple of weeks. This is known as acute bronchitis, as it lasts for only a short period of time. However, in some cases, the damage caused by the infection of the bronchi can become permanent, which causes the condition to become more severe and long-lasting. Bronchitis which lasts longer than three months is known as chronic bronchitis.

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