What is the Connection Between Asthma and Bronchitis?

Asthma and bronchitis are considered two distinct diseases of the lung, but they are connected. Asthma is an hereditary condition that causes the bronchi, or breathing passages that lead from the trachea to the lungs, to become inflamed. People with asthma can sometimes experience asthma attacks, during which the bronchi become inflamed and constricted. Bronchitis, on the other hand, is not an hereditary condition, but can be caused by infection or by environmental irritants. Bronchitis can make asthma symptoms worse, and people with asthma may be at an increased risk of developing bronchitis.

Asthma is a relatively common lung disease that is normally passed genetically from parents to their children. Asthma symptoms may begin very early in life, or they may not appear until late adulthood. Some experts think that other factors, such as viral infection or environmental pollutants, can contribute to the development of asthma in those already genetically predisposed to the condition.

Asthma typically causes swelling and inflammation in the bronchi of the lungs. Often, asthma can cause the muscles around the lungs to spasm, making breathing even more difficult during an attack of the illness. Asthma also generally causes increased fluid accumulation in the lungs, and increased phlegm production. Allergies, exercise, sinus problems, and heartburn can all contribute to the onset of asthma symptoms.

Asthma and bronchitis are considered inextricably linked. Asthma sufferers generally experience an increased risk of bronchitis. Bronchitis infection also can kick-start asthma symptoms in those who suffer from this chronic condition.

Bronchitis generally causes inflammation of the bronchial tubes in the lungs. Bronchitis usually causes symptoms similar to those of asthma, such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and increased phlegm production. The irritation caused by bronchitis can trigger asthma symptoms. Because asthma can leave the breathing passages of the lungs chronically inflamed, it can contribute to the development of chronic bronchitis, especially when environmental irritants are present.

Bronchitis often occurs due to bacterial or viral infection. Especially in the case of viral bronchitis infection, asthma and bronchitis in the same patient can cause a condition known as chronic asthmatic bronchitis. This condition usually requires long-term symptom management.

Persons with asthma are often urged to take preventative measures against bronchitis, since asthma and bronchitis combined can be so dangerous. Asthma patients are generally advised to stay current on influenza and pneumonia vaccines, and to avoid smoking cigarettes. They are also usually encouraged to avoid second-hand smoke. Environmental irritants, including dust, pollen, mold, or airborne chemicals can also contribute to the simultaneous development of asthma and bronchitis.