Chronic Bronchitis
What is it?
Bronchitis is a term that describes inflammation of the bronchial tubes. In chronic bronchitis, this inflammation causes excessive secretions of mucus into the tubes that along with tissue swelling results in bronchial tube narrowing. Chronic bronchitis is defined as a cough that occurs every day with sputum production that lasts at least two months for at least two consecutive years. Chronic Bronchitis is one type of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a disease that is distinguished by chronically poor airflow. The other conditions associated with COPD include Asthma and Emphysema.
What causes it?
The normal function of cells that line the airways of the lungs is to produce mucus, which acts as a part of the body’s defense mechanism against bacteria, viruses, and other foreign particles. The mucus helps catch the particles while tiny hair-like projections in the airways called cilia clear the mucus out of the lungs. In chronic bronchitis, there is an overproduction of mucus that the cilia are unable to clear from the lungs. Over time, the cilia lose function and become less efficient at removing mucus from the lungs. This excess mucus results in airway narrowing and also provides a haven for bacteria to grow, thus making patients more susceptible to serious lung infections.
Who does it affect?
About 10 million Americans are affected by some form of COPD. Cigarette smoking is the most important risk factor for developing chronic bronchitis and 90% of patients have a history of smoking. Other risk factors for chronic bronchitis include: long term exposure to chemicals and dust, exposure to secondhand smoke, family members with COPD, history of frequent lung infections, and long term asthma.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms include:
- Cough
- Increased mucus production
- Shortness of breath, especially after light activity
- Wheezing
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Nasal congestion
- Chest pain or tightness
How is it diagnosed?
The diagnosis of chronic bronchitis is confirmed clinically after a patient presents with symptoms of a productive cough that has been present for 3 months for at least 2 consecutive years. However, additional tests are used to determine prognosis and staging of the diagnosis. A breathing test may be ordered to assess lung function. Blood tests may be ordered to look for signs of infection and carbon dioxide levels, and a Chest X-ray can be used to look for infection or disease progression.
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