Bronchitis

• Bronchitis Overview
• Bronchitis Causes
• Bronchitis Symptoms
• When to Seek Medical Care
• Exams and Tests
• Bronchitis Treatment
  • Self-Care at Home
  • Medical Treatment
• Next Steps
• Follow-up
• Prevention
• Outlook
• Synonyms and Keywords
• Authors and Editors
• Related bronchitis articles:
  Bronchitis - on WebMD
  Bronchitis - on MedicineNet

Bronchitis Overview

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.

• Both adults and children can get bronchitis. Symptoms are similar for both.

• Infants usually get bronchiolitis, which involves the smaller airways and causes symptoms similar to asthma.