Bronchitis- introduction

Bronchitis is an acute inflammation of the air passages within the lungs. It occurs when the trachea (windpipe) and the large and small bronchi (airways) within the lungs become inflamed because of infection or other causes.
The thin mucous lining of these airways can become irritated and swollen.
The cells that make up this lining may leak fluids in response to the inflammation.

Coughing is a reflex that works to clear secretions from the lungs. Often the discomfort of a severe cough leads you to seek medical treatment.
Major types of bronchitis :
The two major types of bronchitis are Acute and Chronic.

What causes bronchitis?

Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a virus. Often a person gets acute bronchitis after having an upper respiratory tract infection such as a cold or the flu. In rare cases, acute bronchitis is caused by bacteria
Acute bronchitis also can be caused by breathing in things that irritate the bronchial tubes, such as smoke. It also can happen if a person inhales food or vomit into the lungs.

Acute bronchitis occurs when the branchi become infected. This infection leads to swelling in the bronchial tubes and the tubes narrow. Mucus is also formed, which can collect in the tubes and inhibit free breathing. As more swelling occurs breathing becomes more and more difficult. This form of bronchitis is spread in much the same way as the common cold. Inhaling air in which bacteria is present or making physical contact with items or individuals where bacteria is present can spread this form of bronchitis.

Chronic bronchitis is defined as excessive mucus secretion in the bronchi and a chronic or recurrent mucus-producing cough that lasts three or more months and recurs year after year. People who have chronic bronchitis are more susceptible to bacterial infections of the airway and lungs.

Unlike acute bronchitis, chronic bronchitis is an ongoing, serious disease. Smoking is the major cause, but air pollution and dust or toxic gases in the environment or workplace also can contribute to the condition. In some people, chronic inflammation of the airways may lead to asthma.
Some other reasons of  causing bronchitis :


Smoking is the leading cause of chronic bronchitis. The substances in cigarette and other forms of tobacco smoking cause irritation of the bronchial tubes.

Bronchitis is usually caused by infection with a virus. However, bronchitis may also be caused by bacteria, smoking or the inhalation of chemical pollutants or dust. The most common viruses that cause bronchitis are influenza A and B, The most common bacteria that causes bronchitis is Mycoplasma pneumoniae.

Industrial pollution is another culprit. Chronic bronchitis is found in higher-than-normal rates among coal miners, grain handlers, metal molders, and other people who are continually exposed to dust.

Breathe air that contains the virus particles or bacteria.

Touch an object that has been touched by an infected person and then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth without washing your hand.