The term bronchitis refers to an acute inflammation of the trachea and bronchi that generally arises as a result of a viral or, more rarely, bacterial infection.
In overall healthy people with responsive immune systems, the course is favorable, leading to complete recovery within 1-3 weeks.
Episodes of acute tracheobronchial inflammation in parsons already suffering from a chronic respiratory disease, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or pulmonary fibrosis, are not considered “bronchitis,” but flare-ups of the underlying disease and should be managed specifically, depending on the clinical picture, on an individualized basis.
