Health Centres - Chronic bronchitis, emphysema and COPD ('smoker's lung')
What is chronic bronchitis?
Chronic bronchitis is a chronic inflammatory condition in the lungs that causes the respiratory passages to be swollen and irritated, increases the mucus production and may damage the lungs. The symptoms are coughing and breathlessness, which will get worse over the years.
The definition of chronic bronchitis is chronic cough or mucus reproduction for at least three months in two successive years when other causes have been excluded.
The most important 'treatment' is to quit smoking - most people who develop chronic bronchitis are smokers. When lung damage results in airflow restriction, the term 'COPD' (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is used.
COPD accounts for about 7 per cent of all days off work from sickness and the annual NHS workload for COPD exceeds that for asthma.
Why does a person get chronic bronchitis and COPD?
Smoking is the most important cause of chronic bronchitis. Other things that make it worse are air pollution and allergy. The seriousness of the disease depends on how much and for how long a person has been smoking.
What does chronic bronchitis feel like?
- You cough a lot, sometimes daily.
- You easily get short of breath.
- Your sputum is thick and difficult to cough up.
What can I do myself?
-
If you smoke: QUIT! It is never too late. Your doctor or pharmacist can provide advice on smoking cessation products and techniques.
- Avoid irritations in your surroundings, such as smoke.
- Make sure infections in the respiratory channels are treated immediately.
- Avoid passive smoking.
How can the doctor tell if I have COPD?
Some other lung and heart diseases give the same symptoms as COPD. X-ray examinations, lung function tests, ECG, and blood samples may be necessary aids to make an exact diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition.
How can I make my life a bit easier?
COPD can often be improved to some extent by removal of exacerbating factors and careful use of medical treatments. The most important thing you must do is quit smoking.
If you live in an area with heavy air pollution, you must do everything in your power to avoid or reduce the risk. Consider getting a new job. Avoid sudden temperature changes or cold, moist weather.
Is it important to exercise by taking walks or other activities?
Yes. You should try and keep active.
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