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Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, those being the air
passages that extend from the windpipe into the lungs. The
inflammation may be caused by a virus, bacteria, smoking or the inhalation
of chemical pollutants or dust. When the cells of the
bronchial-lining tissue are irritated beyond a certain point, the tiny
hairs (cilia) within them, which normally trap and eliminate pollutants,
stop functioning. Consequently, the air passages become clogged by
debris and mucous and irritation increases. In response, a heavy
secretion of mucus develops, which causes the characteristic cough of
bronchitis. It may be either acute or chronic. Bronchitis
often follows a common cold or any infection of the nose and throat.
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