Bronchitis is the inflammation of the mucous membrane in the air passages within the lung’s bronchial tubes. It can be caused by an infection or as a result of continual cigarette smoking when problems are experienced with breathing and excess coughing.

 

There are two types of bronchitis which can be experience; acute, and chronic. Sufferers of acute bronchitis will exhibit more serious symptoms but the condition seldom persists, conversely chronic bronchitis can be a very persistent illness showing either mild or severe symptoms.

 

Preventing Bronchitis

 

  • Smoking. Apart from suffering from an infection, the smoking of tobacco is probably the main cause of bronchitis. The tobacco smoke is inhaled and causes irritation to the bronchial tubes. Smokers have a much greater chance of contracting bronchitis than people who avoid the habit Chronic bronchitis is also seen as being a precursor to lung cancer.

 

  • Bronchitis can often develop from the common cold or influenza if these infections are not treated. It is sensible to get vaccinated against the influenza virus. Have the injection each year to provide protection against influenza, and prevent the risk of it developing into chronic bronchitis.

 

  • If living in an area of high air pollution it is better to wear a face mask when traveling out of doors. Polluted air contains many tiny particles which can be breathed into the air passages. Some industrial work environments suffer from polluted air also, so again it is better to wear a mask rather than risk getting bronchitis.

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