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Bronchitis is an inflammation of the large bronchi (medium-size airways) in the lungs. It can progress to pneumonia. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by viruses or bacteria and may last several days or weeks.[1] Acute bronchitis is characterized by cough and sputum (phlegm) production and symptoms related to the obstruction of the airways by the inflamed airways and the phlegm, such as shortness of breath and wheezing. Diagnosis is by clinical examination and sometimes microbiological examination of the phlegm. Treatment may be with antibiotics (if a bacterial infection is suspected), bronchodilators (to relieve breathlessness) and other treatments. Acute bronchitis can be contagious. In about half of instances of acute bronchitis a bacterial or viral pathogen is identified.[2] Typical viruses include respiratory syncytial virus, rhinovirus, influenza, and others.[3] Acute bronchitis can result from breathing irritating fumes, such as those of tobacco smoke or polluted air.[4] Bronchitis may be indicated by an expectorating cough, shortness of breath (dyspnea) and wheezing. Occasionally chest pains, fever, and fatigue or malaise may also occur. Additionally, Bronchitis caused by Adenoviridae may cause systemic and gastrointestinal symptoms as well.[5] However the coughs due to bronchitis can continue for up to three weeks or more even after all other symptoms have subsided.
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