Final answer:
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi, often caused by infections and exacerbated by smoking. Chronic bronchitis, part of COPD, results from long-term irritation like smoking, leading to ongoing respiratory issues. Acute bronchitis is usually temporary, following a cold or flu, and is less related to smoking than chronic bronchitis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi caused primarily by viruses, although bacteria can also be culpable. It leads to symptoms like coughing up phlegm and difficulty breathing. Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing bronchitis because it damages the lining of the respiratory tract, making it easier for infections to take hold. Similarly, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis, is often a consequence of long-term smoking, which damages the alveoli and airways in the lungs.
When someone smokes, the smoke irritates the bronchial tubes, causing inflammation and increased mucus production. In chronic bronchitis, the lining of the bronchial tubes continually becomes inflamed and thickens over time, which narrows the airways and makes breathing difficult. This condition is a part of COPD and is different from acute bronchitis, which is a temporary condition that commonly follows a cold or the flu. In the case of acute bronchitis, the inflammation is typically transient and can resolve with rest and proper treatment, whereas chronic bronchitis, a more serious condition, results from prolonged irritation, most commonly from smoking, leading to persistent symptoms.