Chronic Bronchitis

• productive cough for more than 3 months in 2 consecutive years (in the absence of an alternative diagnosis)
• largely affects the bronchi
  • generally occurs because of chronic exposure to irritants (e.g. cigarette smoke)

 

characterized by:

• inflamed and swollen airway mucosa
  • impaired mucociliary escalator
• increased production of mucus
  • hypertrophy and hyperplasia of mucus glands
  • secretions difficult to clear and can lead to obstruction
• frequent infections

For Treatment info, see: COPD