Chronic bronchitis is characterized by inflamed airway tissue and excessive mucus production. This leads to a persistent, productive cough for several months each year. The inflammation causes the large and small airways of the lungs to become narrowed, and the lining of the passageways may become scarred. This makes it hard to move air in and out of the lungs, resulting in shortness of breath.
Chronic Bronchitis
Chronic bronchitis symptoms include mucus, cough, wheezing and inflammation or irritation of the lining of bronchial tubes. You may also have chills and fever with chronic bronchitis. Smoking is a common cause, but not the only cause. Air pollution may also be a cause.
When bronchitis symptoms last a long time, the condition is serious. Antibiotics, inhalers, and cough medicines are all used to help treat chronic bronchitis. Sometimes a course of respiratory therapy is also used.