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Diseases & Conditions
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Bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchial tubes, or bronchi - air passages that extend from the windpipe into the lungs. The inflammation may be caused by a virus, bacteria, smoking or the inhalation of chemical pollutants or dust. When the membranes lining the bronchi are irritated beyond a certain point, the tiny hairs (cilia) on the surface that normally trap and sweep away pollutants stop functioning. This in turn causes the air passages to become clogged and then a heavy secretion of mucus develops, causing the characteristic cough of bronchitis.
Symptoms may include:
- cough with yellow/greenish mucus
- soreness and a feeling of constriction or burning in the chest
- sore throat
- chest congestion
- breathlessness
- wheezing
Causes may include:
- dust
- allergens
- chemical cleaning compounds
- cigarette smoking - cited as the most common contributor to chronic bronchitis
- bacterial infections
- viral infections
- environmental pollution
Types include:
- Acute bronchitis - inflammation of mucus membranes of the bronchial or breathing tubes (airways). This condition is usually a mild and self-limiting condition, with complete healing and return to function.
- Chronic bronchitis - a long-term inflammation of the bronchi, which results in increased production of mucus, as well as other changes.
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