Chronic bronchitis
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi of the lungs, that causes the cilia of the bronchial epithelial cells to stop functioning.
Like many disorders, bronchitis can be acute (short-term), or chronic (long-lasting). Chronic bronchitis is a problem commonly seen in smokers, whereas acute bronchitis is usually a secondary bacterial infection following a primary viral infection.
Symptoms
The symptoms of acute and chronic bronchitis include:
- Cough that produces mucus; a yellow-green color usually indicates a bacterial infection
- Bloody (pink, red or rust-streaked) mucus (should be evaluated by a doctor)
- Shortness of breath, worsened by activity
- Wheezing
- Fatigue
- Low-grade fever
- Chest discomfort
Acute bronchitis
usually lasts about 10 to 11 days.
mostly comes after a cold or infection
Chronic bronchitis
Chronic bronchitis is a chronic obstructive respiratory disease, where the airways are obstructed by plugs of mucus.
