Definition

The bronchi are air passages of the lungs. Bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchi. It can make breathing difficult. It can also be painful.

Bronchi of Lungs

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There are different types of bronchitis such as:

• Acute bronchitis—is a sudden onset of symptoms. It only lasts a short time. There is full recovery of lung function.
• Chronic bronchitis —is a long term condition. It causes obstruction and erosion of the lungs. It is often the result of many years of cigarette smoking . This is a serious condition. It is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) .
• Asthmatic bronchitis—occurs in people with asthma . Occurs during an asthma attack. It is most common with allergies.
• Irritative bronchitis—due to frequent contact with certain irritants. This often happens because of work setting. (also known as industrial or environmental bronchitis)