Bronchitis is a respiratory illness that occurs when the airways leading into your lungs get irritated, Nagata explains, which leads to the swelling and mucus buildup that causes difficulty breathing.

Bronchitis itself isn't contagious, but the viruses and bacteria that cause it are. For example, if you are sick with a cold and then develop bronchitis, your cold may spread to others.

Bronchitis is a respiratory illness that occurs when the airways leading into your lungs get irritated, Nagata explains, which leads to the swelling and mucus buildup that causes difficulty breathing.

“Bronchitis can be short-term (acute) and symptoms usually last around three weeks,” says Radford. “But some people can have long-term (chronic) inflammation of the airways.

Dec. 29, 2008 -- Question: If I'm taking antibiotics for bronchitis or pneumonia, how soon should I expect to feel better? Answer: Bronchitis and pneumonia are different things.

Bronchitis, or inflammation of the bronchial tubes, can lead to hemoptysis, or coughing up blood. Learn about the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and more.