Chronic bronchitis develops slowly over time. The cells that line the respiratory system contain fine, hair-like outgrowths from the cell called cilia. Normally, the cilia of many cells beat rhythmically to move mucus along the airways. When smoke or other irritants are inhaled, the cilia become paralyzed or snap off. When this occurs, the cilia are no longer able to move mucus, and the airways become inflamed, narrowed, and clogged.
This leads to difficulty in breathing and can progress to the life-threatening disease emphysema. A mild cough, sometimes called smokers' cough, is usually the first visible sign of chronic bronchitis. Coughing brings up phlegm, although the amount varies considerably from person to person.
Wheezing and shortness of breath may accompany the cough. Diagnostic tests show a decrease in lung function. As the disease advances, breathing becomes difficult and activity decreases. The body does not get enough oxygen, leading to changes in the composition of the blood.
Chronic bronchitis is a long-term inflammation of the bronchi, which results in increased production of mucous, as well as other other changes.
The following are the most common symptoms for chronic bronchitis; however, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
- cough
- expectoration (spitting out
- frequent and severe respiratory infections
- narrowing and plugging of the breathing tubes (bronchi)
- difficult breathing
- disability
Other symptoms may include:
- bluish lips and skin (cyanosis)
- abnormal lung signs
- swelling of the feet (edema)
- heart failure
- Cough that produces mucus (sputum), which may be blood streaked
- Shortness of breath aggravated by exertion or mild activity
- Frequent respiratory infections that worsen symptoms
- Wheezing
- Fatigue
- Ankle, foot, and leg swelling that affects both sides
- Headache
This leads to difficulty in breathing and can progress to the life-threatening disease emphysema. A mild cough, sometimes called smokers' cough, is usually the first visible sign of chronic bronchitis. Coughing brings up phlegm, although the amount varies considerably from person to person.
Wheezing and shortness of breath may accompany the cough. Diagnostic tests show a decrease in lung function. As the disease advances, breathing becomes difficult and activity decreases. The body does not get enough oxygen, leading to changes in the composition of the blood.
Chronic bronchitis is a long-term inflammation of the bronchi, which results in increased production of mucous, as well as other other changes.
The following are the most common symptoms for chronic bronchitis; however, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
- cough
- expectoration (spitting out
- frequent and severe respiratory infections
- narrowing and plugging of the breathing tubes (bronchi)
- difficult breathing
- disability
Other symptoms may include:
- bluish lips and skin (cyanosis)
- abnormal lung signs
- swelling of the feet (edema)
- heart failure
- Cough that produces mucus (sputum), which may be blood streaked
- Shortness of breath aggravated by exertion or mild activity
- Frequent respiratory infections that worsen symptoms
- Wheezing
- Fatigue
- Ankle, foot, and leg swelling that affects both sides
- Headache