Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Chronic bronchitis is a condition in which the airways in the lungs become inflamed. In chronic bronchitis, the condition lasts for a long time or continues to recur. Chronic bronchitis is one form of an illness called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD.

When these airways become inflamed or irritated, a thick mucus forms inside the airways. This makes it difficult to breathe.

Prognosis depends on the severity of the bronchitis. Patients with mild or moderate chronic bronchitis can usually keep the condition well-controlled with medication and therapy to improve lung function. Patients with severe chronic bronchitis may have a more difficult time controlling symptoms.