Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of your bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from your lungs. Bronchitis may be either long-term or acute. A more severe affliction, chronic bronchitis, is a persistent irritation or inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, often on account of smoking. Chronic bronchitis is among the conditions included in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). :D.
Understanding Treatment of Bronchitis Evaluations are often not necessary in the case of acute bronchitis, as the disease is generally not difficult to discover through your description of symptoms and a physical exam. In cases of chronic bronchitis, the doctor will likely get a X ray of your chest to check the extent of the lung damage, as well as pulmonary function tests to quantify how well your lungs are working. In some cases of chronic bronchitis, oral steroids to reduce inflammation and supplemental oxygen may be necessary. In healthy individuals viral bronchitis mucus (http://bronch.forumotion.com/t87-viral-bronchitis-mucus-what-are-the-real-causes) have no long-term health problems and regular lungs, are generally not necessary. Your lungs are exposed to illnesses if you have chronic bronchitis.