Bronchitis (Chronic)

Overview

Chronic bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes. Chronic bronchitis and emphysema together make up chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD a leading cause of death in Canada.

Causes

As with emphysema smoking is the main cause (90 per cent of cases) of chronic bronchitis. When inhaled tobacco smoke irritates the bronchial tubes. The inflammation results in a buildup of thick mucus that partially blocks the airways and makes it hard to breathe air into the lungs.

Non-smokers can develop chronic bronchitis as well especially if they have been exposed to second-hand smoke for many years or if they work in environments where they experience long-term exposure to chemical fumes dust or air pollution.

Symptoms

Symptoms of chronic bronchitis include:

  • a cough that produces mucus
  • difficulty breathing
  • tightness or frequent infections in the chest

A doctor will want to know if the cough has persisted for three months or longer for at least two years in a row before diagnosing chronic bronchitis. He or she may also send you for blood tests and a chest x-ray and/or a pulmonary function test to see how badly your lungs have been damaged.

Treatment

There is no cure for chronic bronchitis but treatment is available for the relief of symptoms. You can slow the progression of the disease if you stop smoking and/or avoid other sources of smoke and chemical fumes.

Your doctor may suggest a bronchodilator or other type of inhaler to widen the airways and help make your breathing easier. If this does not provide adequate relief he may prescribe an inhaled or oral steroid.

Pulmonary rehabilitation therapy may be available in your community. It involves learning breathing and stretching exercises education and psychological support.

If your condition is severe oxygen therapy may help.

Chronic bronchitis increases your risk of lung infections but antibiotics will only help if the infection is new. Occasionally people with chronic bronchitis require a short dose of steroids to help them deal with an infection. To protect yourself from such infections get vaccinated against the flu and pneumonia.

You should not use over-the-counter cough suppressants or expectorants if you have chronic bronchitis. Your doctor may also suggest that you:

  • drink plenty of fluids
  • breathe in moist warm air
  • exercise to improve your aerobic capacity and help clear mucus from the lungs