Chronic bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi, the main air passages in the lungs, which persists for a long period or repeatedly recurs. The condition is characterized by excessive bronchial mucus and a productive cough that produces sputum for three months or more in at least two consecutive years, without any other disease that could account for this symptom.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Cigarette smoking (and exposure to secondhand smoke) is the chief cause of this disease. Air pollution, infection, and allergies are exacerbating factors. The longer and heavier the smoking or contact with secondhand smoke is, the more severe the bronchitis tends to be. Chronic bronchitis is one form of chronic obstructive pulmonary (lung) disease . Chronic bronchitis, emphysema , and asthma as a group are a leading cause of death in the U.S.

Signs and tests

Pulmonary function tests

Arterial blood gas

Chest X-ray

Pulse oximetry (oxygen saturation testing)

Complete blood count

Exercise testing

Chest CAT scan

Treatment

There is no cure for chronic bronchitis. Treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing complications. It is crucial to quit smoking to prevent worsening of chronic bronchitis, and other

respiratory irritants should be avoided. Inhaled medications that dilate the airways may help reduce symptoms, such as wheezing. Antibiotics may be prescribed for infections as needed. Corticosteroids may occasionally be used during flare-ups of wheezing or in people with severe bronchitis not responding to other treatments. Physical exercise programs, breathing exercises, and patient education programs all contribute to the treatment plan. Oxygen therapy may be needed in severe cases. In very severe cases, lung transplantation may be recommended.

Support groups

For organizations that provide support and additional information, see lung disease resources .

Expectations (prognosis)

Mild or moderate cases of chronic bronchitis can often be controlled well with routine medications and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Advanced bronchitis is more difficult to treat and may require the use of oxygen or consideration of lung transplantation. Early recognition, early treatment, and smoking cessation significantly improve the odds of a good outcome.

Complications

Acute bronchitis

Pneumonia

Cor pulmonale

Emphysema

Respiratory failure

Cardiac arrhythmia

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if

respiratory infection or unexplained symptoms develop, or you are short of breath, wheezing, or coughing up blood .

Prevention

Early recognition and treatment may prevent the progression of the disease in people who also stop smoking.