An abrupt worsening of symptoms in people who already have a chronic bronchitis diagnosis is referred to as an acute exacerbation. A kind of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) known as chronic bronchitis causes continuous inflammation and airway narrowing, which results in coughing up a lot of mucus and making it difficult to breathe. An abrupt rise in inflammation and mucus production, frequently brought on by infections, external stimuli, or other respiratory irritants, is known as an acute exacerbation. The airways narrow even further during an exacerbation, which significantly worsens respiratory symptoms and lung function. Intensified coughing, frequently accompanied by thicker and more discoloured mucus, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and a diminished capacity for exercise are some of these symptoms. Particularly in people with pre-existing respiratory diseases or weakened lung function, acute exacerbations can be serious and even fatal. Bronchodilators are often used in combination with corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, antibiotics to treat bacterial infections, oxygen therapy to raise oxygen levels, and in more severe situations, hospitalisation. In those with chronic bronchitis, taking preventive actions including being vaccinated against the flu and pneumonia, quitting smoking, staying away from air pollution, and taking prescribed drugs as directed might lessen the frequency and severity of acute exacerbations.
