Final answer:
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi in the lungs, usually caused by infections, leading to symptoms like coughing, phlegm, and breathing difficulties. It can be acute or chronic and is often treated with antibiotics, whereas asthma, a related chronic condition, involves management of symptoms and triggers.
Step-by-step explanation:
What is Bronchitis?
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi, which are the medium-sized air passages that lead into the lungs. When these airways become inflamed, they grow red and swollen, typically due to viral or bacterial infections. This condition can manifest as either a short-term (acute) or long-lasting (chronic) illness.
Symptoms of bronchitis include a persistent cough that produces phlegm or mucus, shortness of breath, and wheezing. The condition can lead to a significant reduction in airflow, making breathing difficult. Although acute bronchitis is often treated with antibiotics, chronic bronchitis, a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), requires long-term management and care.
By contrast, asthma is another respiratory condition where inflammation causes the airways to swell and narrow, often resulting in bronchospasms. Asthma also involves the production of excess mucus, which can block air from entering the lungs effectively. While asthma is a chronic condition, its symptoms vary in frequency and intensity and can be managed with medication and avoidance of triggers.