Bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry air to your lungs.

Types:

Acute bronchitis — usually caused by a viral infection (like a cold or flu), lasts 1–3 weeks, and often follows a respiratory illness.
Chronic bronchitis — a long-term condition, often linked to smoking, where the airways stay inflamed for months at a time, recurring over years. It’s a form of COPD.

Common symptoms:

Persistent cough (with or without mucus)
Chest discomfort or tightness
Fatigue
Mild fever
Shortness of breath

Treatment:

Acute: rest, fluids, and time — antibiotics usually aren’t needed since it’s viral
Chronic: quitting smoking, inhalers, pulmonary rehab, and avoiding lung irritants

If a cough lasts more than 3 weeks, comes with high fever, or causes breathing difficulty, it’s worth seeing a doctor.