Bronchitis

Bronchi are a component of the respiratory system. An inflammation of the bronchial tube lining is known as bronchitis. It manifests symptoms like frequent coughing with or without mucus, shortness of breath, exhaustion, fever, and wheezing or whistling noises when breathing. Bronchitis is generally caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Other causes of bronchitis include an allergic reaction to smoke or another irritant or allergen. Bronchitis can be of two types: acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis is a minor illness, like the seasonal virus flu associated with allergies. Chronic bronchitis is a severe form of bronchitis and is associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The frequent causes of chronic bronchitis are smoking and prolonged exposure to air pollution. Bronchitis can create further complications due to a weak immune system in the patient. Bronchitis patients are usually given antiviral and anti-inflammatory medicines.