Although there are several different types of bronchitis, the two most common are acute and chronic.
Acute bronchitis is the inflammation of mucous membranes of the bronchial tubes.
Acute bronchitis is usually caused by infectious agents such as bacteria or viruses. Acute bronchitis is usually a mild, and self-limiting condition, with complete healing and return to function. Acute bronchitis may follow the common cold or other viral infections in the upper respiratory tract. It may also occur in people with chronic sinusitis, allergies, or those with enlarged tonsils and adenoids. It can be serious in people with pulmonary or cardiac diseases.