Definition

Bronchitis (pronounced brong-KIE-tis) is an inflammation of the air passages between the nose and the lungs. It affects the trachea (pronounced TRAY-kee-uh), or windpipe, and the bronchi. The bronchi (pronounced BRON-kee) are air tubes through which air flows into and out of the lungs.

Bronchitis can be either acute (of brief duration) or chronic (longlasting). Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It usually heals fairly quickly without complications. Chronic bronchitis is a sign of more serious lung disease. It can often be slowed, but it cannot be cured.

Description

Acute and chronic bronchitis are both inflammations of the air passages. However, their causes and treatments are different. Acute bronchitis occurs most frequently during the winter. It often follows a viral infection, such as a cold (see common cold entry) or the flu (see influenza entry), and may accompany a bacterial infection.

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