Bronchitis is an inflammation or swelling of the bronchial tubes (bronchi), the air passages between the mouth and nose and the lungs.More specifically, bronchitis describes a condition where the lining of the bronchial tubes becomes inflamed.Individuals with bronchitis have a reduced ability to breathe air and oxygen into their lungs; also, they cannot clear heavy mucus or phlegm from their airways.This article will cover the causes, symptoms, treatments, and prevention of bronchitis. Symptoms of bronchitisMan coughingBronchitis is characterized by persistent coughing.Signs and symptoms of both acute and chronic bronchitis include:Persistent cough, which may produce mucusWheezingLow fever and chillsChest tighteningSore throatBody achesBreathlessnessHeadachesBlocked nose and sinusesOne of the main symptoms of acute bronchitis is a cough that lasts for several weeks. It can sometimes last for several months if the bronchial tubes take a long time to heal fully.It is common for the symptoms of chronic bronchitis to get worse two or more times every year, and they are often worse during the winter months.However, a cough that refuses to go away could also be a sign of another illness such as asthma or pneumonia.Bronchitis may be acute or chronic:LungEncyclopedia Entry for Bronchitis :Bronchitis - Respiratory syncytial virus (Paramyxovirus), Parainfluenza virus (Paramyxovirus), Influenza virusEncyclopedia Entry for Bronchitis :Bronchitis. Can be caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae and Bordetella pertussis.Information from Marcello Allegretti.