As with pleurisy, it is treated by draining the effusion and treating the underlying condition the pneumonia or other lung infection that caused the pleural condition. Many acute respiratory conditions can become chronic, particularly when aggravated by environmental factors such as cigarette smoke or air pollution. Chronic bronchitis denotes long-term spitting and coughing continuing for months and returning each year, lasting longer each time. Because of the obstruction, chronic bronchitis sufferers have continual difficulty breathing. Those who quit smoking find that chronic bronchitis is lessened after a while.
Chronic bronchitis can progress to a life-threatening lung disease, emphysema.
Although the breathing difficulties symptomatic of this condition are similar to asthma, asthmatic breathing difficulties appear and disappear while chronic bronchitis stubbornly persists. Oxygen may also be administered. Antibiotics may be prescribed to check bacterial infections. Atrovent by inhalation can block the nerves in the airways, helping to reduce cough. Not smoking and avoiding air pollution are the best ways to prevent chronic bronchitis.