Chronic Bronchitis

Definition

Definition of Chronic Bronchitis
Bronchitis is a term that describes inflammation of the bronchial tubes (bronchi and the smaller branches termed bronchioles) that results in excessive secretions of mucus into the tubes with tissue swelling that may narrow or close off bronchial tubes.

Chronic bronchitis is defined as a cough that occurs every day with sputum production that lasts for at least 3 months, 2 years in a row.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Chronic Bronchitis
The list of signs and symptoms for Chronic Bronchitis listed below:

1. Cough, with or without mucus
2. Fatigue
3. Many respiratory infections
4. Shortness of breath (dyspnea) that gets worse with mild activity
5. Trouble catching one's breath
6. Wheezing

Causes

Causes of Chronic Bronchitis
The major cause of chronic bronchitis is cigarette smoking; other causes are bronchial irritants, usually inhaled repeatedly by the affected person.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Chronic Bronchitis
Diagnosis for chronic bronchitis is done by clinical history and physical exam, while other tests such as chest X-rays, pulmonary function tests, and CT imaging studies may also be used.

Treatment

Treatment of Chronic Bronchitis
Treatment of most people with chronic bronchitis is to quit cigarette smoking and avoid air-borne bronchial irritants; medical treatments include bronchodilators, steroids, and oxygen therapy.

Prognosis

Prognosis of Chronic Bronchitis
COPD is a long-term (chronic) illness. The disease will get worse more quickly if you do not stop smoking.

Patients with severe COPD will be short of breath with most activities and will be admitted to the hospital more often. These patients should talk with their doctor about breathing machines and end-of-life care.

Prevention

Prevention of Chronic Bronchitis
Not smoking prevents most COPD. Ask your doctor or health care provider about quit-smoking programs. Medicines are also available to help kick the smoking habit. The medicines are most effective if you are motivated to quit.