Am I At The Risk Of Bronchitis?

Bronchitis is a respiratory condition characterized by inflammation of the bronchial tubes — the airways that carry air to and from the lungs. This inflammation causes the lining of the bronchial tubes to swell and produce mucus, leading to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, chest discomfort, and shortness of breath. Bronchitis can be acute or chronic: • Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a viral infection, such as the common cold or flu, and typically resolves within a few weeks. • Chronic bronchitis, a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is a long-term condition often caused by smoking or prolonged exposure to irritants, with symptoms that persist for months or recur over several years. Common symptoms may include persistent cough (often with mucus), shortness of breath, wheezing, chest discomfort or tightness, fatigue, mild fever and chills (in acute cases). Risk factors could be smoking, air pollutants, viruses, occupational exposures (e.g., dust, chemical fumes) or weakened immune system. While acute bronchitis often resolves on its own with rest and supportive care, chronic bronchitis requires medical management to prevent complications such as respiratory failure or pneumonia. Treatment may include bronchodilators, corticosteroids, pulmonary rehabilitation, and lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking.