What is bronchitis?

Bronchitis is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation of the lining of the trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles, which are key components of the respiratory system. This inflammation often results in increased mucus production, leading to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. The primary cause of bronchitis can vary, including viral infections, bacterial infections, or irritants like smoke or pollution that can aggravate the airways.

Understanding bronchitis as an inflammatory response helps distinguish it from other respiratory conditions or attacks. For instance, while asthma attacks can cause similar symptoms, they are not specifically related to inflammation of the bronchioles unless an asthma aggravation is involved. Furthermore, specifying that bronchitis is about inflammation rather than infection limited solely to the lungs clarifies its broader context within respiratory illnesses, as infections can indeed extend beyond just the lungs. Thus, recognizing the comprehensive nature of bronchitis in terms of airway inflammation is crucial for effective treatment and understanding its impact on respiratory health.