Ontario Lung Association: Your Lungs: Bronchitis

What is Bronchitis?

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi. It causes the walls of the bronchi to swell. As well, too much mucus is produced in the lungs.

COPD: Stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and refers to emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Individuals with COPD may also exhibit some degree of asthma.

Did you know...

Chest infections seem to happen more often in people with chronic bronchitis.
Smoking makes it difficult for the lungs to fight infections.
A patient with advanced bronchitis may not be able to walk or climb stairs without an oxygen tank.
It is a major cause of disability.
Chronic bronchitis damages your lungs and can damage your heart.

Causes
In 80-90% of cases, bronchitis is caused by smoking. Occupational exposure to dusts and some fumes is the other major risk factor. Exposure to second-hand smoke and indoor air pollution may play a role as well.

Prevention
Not smoking is the best way to prevent bronchitis. Quiting for those diagnosed can slow the progression of the disease.

For more information about your lungs:

• read our national site's information on bronchitis

• call the Lung Association's Information Line at 1-800-972-2636

Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are also called COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease).

If you're looking for information about chronic bronchitis, you should also read our fact sheets on:
• COPD
• emphysema

BreathWorks
Help for people with COPD.

Get On Track
Our Get On Track smoking cessation program has already helped thousands of smokers become non-smokers.