A LONG-TERM FORM OF BRONCHIAL INFLAMMATION
Chronic Bronchitis
A long-term inflammation of the bronchial tubes with persistent cough and sputum for at least three months in two consecutive years. Often part of COPD and strongly linked to smoking.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Chronic Bronchitis
Chronic bronchitis is a long-term inflammation of the bronchial tubes that causes persistent cough with mucus production for at least three months in two consecutive years. It is one of the two main components of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the other being emphysema. The condition is strongly linked to long-term tobacco smoking, biomass smoke from cooking fuels and chronic exposure to air pollution. Typical features include daily cough, excessive sputum, wheezing, recurrent chest infections, breathlessness — particularly on exertion — and reduced exercise tolerance. Chronic bronchitis cannot be cured, but its symptoms can be effectively controlled and progression slowed with inhaled bronchodilator therapy, smoking cessation, vaccinations, pulmonary rehabilitation and management of flare-ups. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides comprehensive chronic bronchitis care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Long-term tobacco smoking — the leading cause
- Exposure to biomass smoke from cooking fuels
- Occupational dust, chemicals and fumes
- Outdoor air pollution
- Repeated respiratory infections
- Pre-existing lung disease or asthma
- Older age and family history
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Clinical features, spirometry to assess airflow obstruction and chest imaging
Often part of the COPD spectrum
Inhaled bronchodilator therapy, smoking cessation, vaccinations and rehabilitation
Worsening cough, sputum and breathlessness may need additional therapy
Avoid smoking and reduce exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Inhaled Therapy with Smoking Cessation
The most effective approach combines stopping smoking with regular inhaled bronchodilator therapy, vaccinations, pulmonary rehabilitation and structured management of flare-ups. This relieves symptoms, slows progression and improves quality of life.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms, smoking history and exposures, examines the chest and arranges spirometry and chest imaging.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created with appropriate inhalers, smoking cessation support, vaccinations and rehabilitation guidance.
- 3
Medical Management
Regular inhaled therapy, smoking cessation, vaccinations, and treatment of flare-ups; oxygen therapy in selected patients.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Regular review of symptoms, inhaler technique and lung function, with step-up or step-down of therapy as needed.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Inhaled Bronchodilator Therapy
Long-acting bronchodilator inhalers open up the airways, relieve breathlessness and improve daily function.
Smoking Cessation
Stopping smoking is the single most important step in slowing progression and reducing flare-ups.
Vaccinations
Annual flu and pneumococcal vaccinations significantly reduce the risk of severe chest infections.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation (Referral for rehabilitation programme)
Structured exercise and breathing programmes improve exercise tolerance, breathlessness and quality of life.
Treatment of Flare-ups
Flare-ups are managed with adjustments to inhaled therapy, antibiotics where bacterial infection is suspected, and short courses of additional therapy when needed.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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