Swelling or inflammation of the air passages between the mouth, nose and the lungs is called bronchitis. The lining of the bronchial tubes (the passage through which air from the nose and mouth is taken into the lungs and taken back) becomes inflamed. This condition is called bronchitis and could be either chronic or acute.

The following are the common symptoms of bronchitis: persistent cough that might produce mucus (sputum): sore throat; wheezing; chest tightening; low fever and chills; head/body aches; blocked nose and sinuses; and chest discomfort.

The common factors that increase the risk of developing bronchitis are cigarette smoke, exposure to irritants at the workplace or at home, low resistance and gastric reflux. If you are in close contact with someone who has bronchitis, you are prone to develop bronchitis yourself.

Bronchitis can be prevented by following certain practices. Smoking - both active and passive smoke - must be avoided. Getting vaccinated helps protect yourself from getting the flu. Washing the hands reduces the risk of catching viral infections.

One of the common complications of bronchitis, when it is left untreated, is pneumonia that occurs if the infection spreads deep into the lungs. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can occur due to the repeated bouts of bronchitis. Common complications include breathing difficulty and respiratory failure.