What condition is associated with chronic inflammation of the airways and excessive mucus production?

Chronic bronchitis is characterized by a persistent cough that produces sputum and is associated with long-term inflammation of the bronchi in the lungs. This condition leads to excessive mucus production due to the ongoing irritation and inflammation of the airway linings, which can result from factors such as smoking, exposure to environmental pollutants, or recurrent respiratory infections. The chronic inflammation narrows the airways, making it harder to breathe and increasing the risk of subsequent respiratory infections.

While other respiratory conditions like COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) may encompass chronic bronchitis, chronic bronchitis specifically identifies the inflammation and mucus production in the airways, distinguishing it from the broader category of COPD that may include emphysema and other lung disease definitions. Asthma, on the other hand, involves episodic airway constriction but does not typically involve the chronic inflammation seen in chronic bronchitis. A pneumothorax refers to the presence of air in the pleural space, which is a separate condition entirely and does not involve chronic inflammation of the airways.