Chronic Bronchitis (CB)
Chronic Bronchitis (CB): Overview
Definition:
Chronic bronchitis (CB) is a long-term inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from your lungs. It is characterized by a persistent cough with mucus production for at least three months in two consecutive years. Most cases of chronic bronchitis are categorized as COPD.
Causes:
The primary cause of chronic bronchitis is irritation of the airways, usually from cigarette smoke or air pollution. This irritation leads to inflammation and an overproduction of mucus in the bronchial tubes. Over time, this damage can impair the function of the cilia, which normally clear mucus from the airways.
Symptoms:
The main symptom of chronic bronchitis is a persistent cough with mucus. Other symptoms include wheezing, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Some people may experience bluish fingernails, lips, and skin due to low oxygen levels, as well as swelling in the legs and ankles. Symptoms can be worse in the winter months or during flare-ups triggered by respiratory irritants.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
A doctor can diagnose chronic bronchitis based on a medical history and physical exam, including listening to the lungs with a stethoscope. Pulmonary function tests may be used to assess lung function. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. This may include quitting smoking, avoiding irritants, using bronchodilators to open airways, and taking medications to thin mucus. Pulmonary rehabilitation can also help improve lung function and quality of life.
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References
- Loma Linda University Health. Chronic Bronchitis. https://lluh.org/conditions/chronic-bronchitis
- WebMD. Chronic Bronchitis. https://www.webmd.com/lung/copd/copd-chronic-bronchitis
- Healthline. Chronic Bronchitis: Symptoms, Treatment, Causes, and More. https://www.healthline.com/health/copd/understanding-chronic-bronchitis
- Cleveland Clinic. Chronic Bronchitis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24645-chronic-bronchitis
- WebMD. Bronchitis. https://www.webmd.com/lung/understanding-bronchitis-basics
- Medical News Today. Bronchitis: Symptoms, causes, treatment, and more. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/8888
- Medical News Today. Chronic bronchitis: Causes, symptoms, and treatment. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/chronic-bronchitis
- Penn Medicine. Bronchitis – Symptoms and Causes. https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/bronchitis
