Question

What is the medical term for inflammation of the small bronchial tubes?

Answer 1

Bronchitis.

Explanation:

Acute (short term) bronchitis or chronic (long term) bronchitis is caused by inflammation of the bronchi and bronchioles.

In both cases, the inflammation causes mucus secretion, wheezing, shortness of breath, a persistent and productive cough, and chest discomfort.

Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a mild infection and is also called a chest cold, while chronic bronchitis is generally caused by sustained exposure to irritants (cigarette smoke, air pollution, hazardous gases, etc.) that cause damage to the bronchi and bronchioles.