Bronchitis is a respiratory disease that occurs when the mucous membrane in the lungs' air passages becomes infected and inflamed. The inflamation of this membrane causes coughing spells as well as thick phlegm and shortness of breath.

There are two types of bronchitis, acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis usually lasts for a few days but some of its symptoms such as cough can last three weeks or more. Chronic bronchitis is a grave long term condition that usually requires medical treatment.

Signs and Symptoms of Bronchitis:

• Large amounts of discolored (yellowish-grayish) mucus that comes up when you cough.
• Sore throat
• Congestion
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Fever and chills
• Feeling of burning in the chest

Causes of Bronchitis:

The most common cause of bronchitis is a viral infection and can occur while suffering from a cold or after it. Smoking, inhaling tobacco and chemical fumes as well as other air pollutants can pose a risk for bronchitis.

How to treat bronchitis:

The majority of bronchitis cases cure on their own after a few days. It is important to rest, drink lots of fluids and keep your home warm and moist (a humidifier may be helpful).

Antibiotics are not prescribed and do not work against bronchitis because it is a viral infection.

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