Common Types of Lung Disease

Chronic bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of the airways (bronchial tubes) that carry air to and from the lungs. This inflammation limits the air that flows to and from the lungs, which may lead to coughing and heavy mucus (phlegm) production. Acute bronchitis sometimes occurs with a cold. In chronic bronchitis, however, a patient has a mucus-producing cough for several months or years. After a long period of irritation, the body begins to produce excess mucus constantly. This thickens the lining of the airways. Over time, a chronic cough develops and the lungs become scarred. According to the CDC, chronic bronchitis is often caused by cigarette smoking or by a bacterial or viral infection. A patient with chronic bronchitis may also develop emphysema.

If you think you may have chronic bronchitis, see your doctor as soon as possible.