Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi, the main air passages to the lungs. It occurs over a long period and recurs over several years.

Causes

Chronic bronchitis is a condition of excessive bronchial mucus with a cough for three months or more in at least two consecutive years.

The severity of the disease relates to the amount and duration of the exposure to coal dust and to a great extent whether the sufferer smokes cigarettes.

Symptoms

• Cough that produces mucus, may be blood streaked,
• Shortness of breath,
• Frequent respiratory infections,
• Other symptoms include: wheezing, fatigue, reddish face, palms and cheeks, headaches, vision abnormalities.

Treatment

There is no cure for chronic bronchitis. Treatment, for example antibiotics, is aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing complications.

Smoking should be avoided.

Like emphysema, sufferers can use inhalers and home oxygen tanks as well as physical therapy.

Expectations

The chance for recovery is poor for the advanced disease. Early recognition and treatment combined with giving up smoking cessation improves the chance of relieving the symptoms significantly