What is Chronic Bronchitis ?  Chronic bronchitis is an inflammation in the bronchial tubes and defined by a cough that creates phlegm for a three month time period in two adjoining years.  Inflammation of the airways can result in a narrowing of the bronchial tubes.

Large quantities of mucous are formed when the bronchial tubes become overly irritated, which is coughed up by the patient.  Other symptoms of chronic bronchitis are wheezing, a tightening of the chest, as well as trouble catching breaths and breathing.

Smoking is the major cause of chronic bronchitis, since it affects the lungs directly.  This form of bronchitis will typically occur with emphysema.  There are other causes of chronic bronchitis, which include dust or chemical fumes.  Once these triggers are removed, the bronchitis often is relieved and dissipates.

Doctors will perform several tests to properly diagnose chronic bronchitis.  Some of the tests will include chest x-rays, CT scans, and pulmonary function tests.

How is it treated?  Those who have been diagnosed with bronchitis caused by irritants, such as ammonia, chlorine, bromine, or hydrogen sulfide, should wear a face mask that is designed to filter out such chemical fumes or dust.  If the diagnosis is due to cigarette smoke, then it is suggested to stop smoking and avoid second-hand smoke.

Once the trigger is removed, the symptom of coughing should cease within a month.  After two months, it has been noted that 80% of diagnosed patients cease coughing all together.

There are other forms of treatment for bronchitis.  These include steroids, oral medications, oxygen therapy, or bronchodilators that open up airways.  It is also important to exercise.  If the case diagnosis is severe, surgery may need to be performed to remove the permanently narrowed airways that have been scarred over time.

Brief summary:  Chronic bronchitis is most commonly a result of smoking or second-hand smoke exposure.  Other common causes are irritants found in chemicals or dust.  One can define chronic bronchitis by the large amounts of cough producing phlegm that occurs for two months, two years side by side.  To receive proper diagnosis, tests may include chest x-rays, pulmonary function tests, or CT scans.  If the diagnosis is due to smoking, quitting smoking is recommended.  If it is caused by another irritant, it is suggested to immediately remove the irritant.  Wear masks if one is exposed to an irritant that cannot be avoided.  A few other treatment examples are exercise, oxygen therapy, surgery, or an inhaler.-