chronic bronchitis
Definition
Noun: A persistent, long-term inflammatory condition of the bronchi (the main air passages to the lungs) characterized by excessive mucus (sputum) production, resulting in a chronic cough and obstructed airflow.
Usage
This is a medical term used to describe a specific, ongoing disease. It is often discussed in the context of respiratory health, smoking, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). * The primary symptom of chronic bronchitis is a productive cough that lasts for at least three months per year for two consecutive years. * Long-term exposure to irritants like cigarette smoke is a major cause of chronic bronchitis.
Examples
- After 30 years of smoking, he was diagnosed with chronic bronchitis.
- Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are the two main conditions that make up COPD.
- Managing chronic bronchitis involves avoiding lung irritants and using medications to open the airways.
Advanced Usage
- The term is often used in a differential diagnosis to distinguish it from acute (short-term) bronchitis or other respiratory conditions like asthma.
- In epidemiological studies, the prevalence of chronic bronchitis is frequently linked to air pollution levels and occupational hazards.
Variants and Related Words
- Bronchitis (noun): The general term for inflammation of the bronchi, which can be acute or chronic.
- COPD (noun): Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, an umbrella term that often includes chronic bronchitis.
Synonyms
- Chronic obstructive bronchitis: A more specific term emphasizing the airflow obstruction.
- Blue bloater: An outdated clinical descriptor for a type of COPD patient often associated with chronic bronchitis (characterized by cyanosis and edema). Note: This term is now considered non-technical and potentially pejorative.
Related Phrases
- Chronic cough: A key symptom of the condition.
- Excessive sputum production: A defining characteristic of the disease.
- Airflow obstruction: The primary physiological consequence.
Noun
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a form of bronchitis characterized by excess production of sputum leading to a chronic cough and obstruction of air flow
