Definition

Chronic bronchitis is a long term disease of the lungs. It is a problem with the airways of the lungs. Injury or irritation causes these airways to swell and develop extra mucus. This makes it difficult to move air in and out of the lungs. It will make breathing difficult.

Chronic bronchitis is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Chronic Bronchitis Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

Chronic bronchitis is caused damage to the airways. The damage is caused by:

• Cigarette smoking
• Inhaling toxins or other irritants
• Genetic predisposition can make a person's lungs more susceptible to damage from smoke or pollutants (alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency)

Risk Factors    TOP

Cigarette smoking is the greatest risk factor for developing chronic bronchitis. The more you smoke and the longer you smoke, the greater your chance of developing chronic bronchitis. Frequent and long-term smoking also increases the chance of severe chronic bronchitis.

Chronic bronchitis is more common in people over 40 years old. Other factors that may increase your risk of chronic bronchitis include:

• Long-term exposure to chemicals, dust, and other substances that have been inhaled
• Long-term cigar or marijuana smoking
• Exposure to secondhand smoke
• Family members with COPD
• History of frequent childhood lung infections
• Long term asthma

Symptoms    TOP

Symptoms include:

• Cough
• Increased mucus production
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, especially after mild activity or exercise
• Recurring respiratory infections that cause symptoms to worsen
• Wheezing when breathing
• Fatigue

Diagnosis    TOP

To diagnose chronic bronchitis, symptoms of productive cough must have been present for three or more months in at least two consecutive years, and not have been caused by another condition. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Tests may include the following:

• Breathing tests to check lung function
• Blood tests including
  • Complete blood count
  • Arterial blood gas tests

Images of the lungs may be taken with:

• Chest x-ray
• CT scan of the chest

Treatment    TOP

. There is no cure for chronic bronchitis. There are treatments that can reduce symptoms and improve lung function. The best way to reduce symptoms is to stop smoking.

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Options may include one or more of the following::

Prevention    TOP

To reduce your chances of getting chronic bronchitis, take these steps:

• If you smoke, quit.
• Avoid exposure to second-hand smoke.
• Avoid exposure to air pollution or irritants.
• Wear protective gear if exposed to irritants or toxins at work.