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Chronic bronchitis

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Lungs in chest showing bronchial tubes in left lung, with detail of healthy airway and airway inflamed by bronchitis

Bronchial tubes are airways that deliver air into the lungs. With chronic bronchitis, breathing in tobacco smoke and other irritants over time can make the airways inflamed. The airways make more mucus than normal. This reduces air flow and makes you cough. Over many years, damage to the lungs can grow worse and become a lifelong condition.

Current as of: August 6, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.