The bronchial tubes are connected with the lungs. In some conditions, the bronchial tubes get infected or inflamed. The inflammation or infection caused to the lining of the bronchial tubes are called bronchitis. In this condition, there will be less oxygen in the lungs which lead to phlegm and mucus build up in the airways.
Types of Bronchitis
The infection in the bronchial tubes can be a serious condition. There are two types of bronchitis. They are:
- Acute Bronchitis
- Chronic Bronchitis
Acute Bronchitis: Acute bronchitis is developed by a mild to average infection in the lining of the bronchial tubes. It may develop after getting a common cold, flu or a viral infection. The cough may followed by a green colored phlegm. It may also involve fever, shortness of breath, discomfort, chest pain etc.
The primary causes of acute bronchitis are exposure to pollution, virus, bacteria and smoke especially of tobacco.
Chronic Bronchitis: It is followed by continuous cough which produce mucus. The patient coughs continuously in most of the days in a month. The patients suffering from chronic bronchitis may have cough continuously for two years. The intensity will be varied according to different types of climates and seasons.
The primary cause of chronic bronchitis are toxic gases, smoking, air pollution and industrial fumes
Causes of Bronchitis
The bronchitis occur when some of the irritants start irritating the bronchial tubes.
The primary causes of bronchitis are
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Air particles
The occurrence of bronchitis can be described as the fight against the infection by the response of the immune system.
Who are at Risk?
The people who are at great risk of getting bronchitis are:
- People who have high exposure to industrial wastes and fumes
- Smokers
- People who has week immunity
- Infants
- Elderly people
- People with GERD (gastro esophageal reflux disease)
