Summary about Disease
Chronic bronchitis is a long-term inflammation and irritation of the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry air to and from the lungs. This inflammation causes increased mucus production, leading to a chronic cough and difficulty breathing. It is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Symptoms
Persistent cough, often producing mucus (sputum)
Shortness of breath, especially with exertion
Wheezing
Chest tightness
Fatigue
Frequent respiratory infections
Causes
Smoking (most common cause)
Exposure to air pollution (e.g., dust, fumes, chemical irritants)
Recurring acute bronchitis infections
Genetic factors (rare)
Medicine Used
Bronchodilators: Relax and widen the airways to ease breathing (e.g., albuterol, ipratropium). Can be short-acting or long-acting.
Inhaled corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation in the airways (e.g., fluticasone, budesonide).
Combination inhalers: Contain both a bronchodilator and a corticosteroid.
Mucolytics: Help to thin and loosen mucus, making it easier to cough up (e.g., guaifenesin).
Antibiotics: Prescribed if a bacterial infection is present.
Phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors: Reduce airway inflammation and relax the airways (e.g., roflumilast).
Theophylline: A bronchodilator that can help relax airway muscles and decrease airway inflammation.
Is Communicable
Chronic bronchitis itself is not communicable. It is a chronic condition caused by long-term irritation and inflammation of the airways. However, the respiratory infections that can worsen symptoms may be communicable.
Precautions
Quit smoking
Avoid exposure to irritants (e.g., air pollution, dust, fumes)
Get vaccinated against the flu and pneumonia
Practice good hygiene (e.g., frequent handwashing)
Use a humidifier to keep airways moist
Pulmonary rehabilitation
Stay hydrated.
How long does an outbreak last?
Chronic bronchitis is not characterized by "outbreaks" in the way that acute infections are. It is a chronic, long-term condition. Symptoms can worsen (exacerbations or flare-ups), and these exacerbations can last for several days to several weeks.
How is it diagnosed?
Medical history and physical exam: The doctor will ask about symptoms, smoking history, and exposure to irritants.
Pulmonary function tests (spirometry): Measure how much air you can inhale and exhale and how quickly you can exhale air.
Chest X-ray: Can help rule out other conditions.
Arterial blood gas analysis: Measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.
Sputum test: To check for infection.
Timeline of Symptoms
Chronic bronchitis is defined by having a cough with mucus production for at least 3 months of the year for 2 consecutive years. The symptoms develop gradually over time. Early symptoms may include a mild cough and shortness of breath. As the condition progresses, the symptoms become more severe and frequent. Exacerbations may occur where symtoms worsen acutely.
Important Considerations
Chronic bronchitis is a progressive disease, meaning it tends to worsen over time.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life.
Smoking cessation is the most important step in managing chronic bronchitis.
People with chronic bronchitis are at increased risk for developing other respiratory infections.
Pulmonary rehabilitation can help improve breathing and exercise tolerance.
Oxygen therapy may be required in severe cases.