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Bronchitis is the swelling and irritation of the airways that lead into the lungs. It is usually caused by a virus or exposure to chemicals or air pollution, including smoke.
Patients with bronchitis may have persistent cough that often produces sputum, fever, mild wheezing, and chest pain.
Bronchitis can develop suddenly and last less than 2 weeks. It can also become a chronic (ongoing) illness, especially for smokers. Chronic bronchitis is a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
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