Chronic bronchitis is an inflammation in the airways leading to and within the lungs (bronchial tubes). The inflammation may narrow these tubes, which makes it hard to breathe.
Chronic bronchitis causes a persistent cough that brings up mucus (sputum). Chronic bronchitis is a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Author:Sabra L. Katz-Wise
Medical Review:Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Robert L. Cowie, MB, FCP(SA), MD, MSc, MFOM - Pulmonology
Robert L. Cowie, MB, FCP(SA), MD, MSc, MFOM - Pulmonology
Last Updated: 08/31/2006
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