What Are The Most Common Lung Diseases?

Bronchitis

When an individual's larger lung airways become inflamed, it is referred to as bronchitis. The passages through which air passes through from an individual's mouth and nose to their lungs are referred to as bronchi. Bronchitis occurs when an infection or another mechanism causes the lining of the bronchi to become irritated and inflamed. Bacteria, viruses, and other types of particles that irritate an individual's bronchi can cause bronchitis. This inflammation makes it difficult for an affected individual to inhale air and effectively breathe oxygen into their lungs. In addition, inflammation of the bronchi lining impairs the patient's ability to clear phlegm and heavy mucus from their airways. Symptoms of bronchitis include persistent mucus-producing cough, low-grade fever, chest tightness, body aches, headaches, wheezing, chills, sore throat, blocked nose, breathlessness, and obstructed sinuses. Bronchitis is diagnosed with the use of x-rays, blood tests, and lung function tests. This condition is treated with cough medications, oxygen therapy, anti-inflammatory drugs, bronchodilators, and mucolytics.

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