Bronchitis is an inflammation of the main airways in the lungs. Bronchitis may be short term (acute) or chronic, which means it lasts longer and occurs frequently. A respiratory disorder characterized by the production of mucus and inflammation of the bronchioles, caused by prolonged exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke and air pollutants. CausesAcute bronchitis usually follows a viral respiratory infection. At first, affecting the nose, sinuses, throat and then spreads to the lungs. Sometimes you can get another (secondary) bacterial infection of the airways. This means that bacteria infect the airways, in addition to the virus. There are two types of bronchitis: Acute bronchitis comes on rapidly, usually after a virus has invaded the upper respiratory tract. Sometimes it is a bacterial infection. most likely to trigger acute bronchitis are those responsible for influenza (flu) and colds. Measles virus and rubella (German measles) can also cause acute bronchitis. In these cases, it is called acute infectious bronchitis. The condition is called acute irritative bronchitis when it is caused by inhaling dust, fumes or vapors. Chronic bronchitis is defined as a mucus-producing cough that lasts for at least three months to two years in a row. The main cause is smoking. Exposure to some pollutants can also contribute to chronic bronchitis. A growing number of experts believe that some type of infection is necessary final trigger of chronic bronchitis. Approximately 90% of people with chronic bronchitis are smokers. Some items, such as coal mining, welding, asbetos work and grain handling also increase the risk of developing bronchitis. People at risk in cases of acute bronchitis are: • The elderly, infants and young children • People with heart or lung disease • SmokersSymptoms may include: • Coughing • production of mucus (sputum), clear or white or gray or yellowish green color • Shortness of breath, aggravated by a slight effort wheezing • • • mild fever and chills, fatigue • discomfortSymptoms chest If you have chronic bronchitis, chronic bronchitis, long-term inflammation leads to scarring of the bronchi production, excessive mucus . Eventually, the thickened lining of the bronchi and airways can become finally scored. Signs and symptoms of chronic bronchitis may include: • Cough is worse in the morning and in damp weather • Frequent respiratory infections (like colds or flu), with a worsening productive cough




















