Acute bronchitis is a condition in which mucous membranes of bronchial tubes gets inflamed. Bronchial tubes are considered as the main windpipe and perform important function of carrying air or oxygen into the lungs. Due to the infection in the tubes, swelling is caused and thick fluid (commonly referred as mucus) is formed inside them. It has been observed that person basically suffers from the condition during winter’s season or when air pollution is very high. Infants, elderly people and young children are mostly affected by the infection.

Acute bronchitis is commonly caused by viral infections. Viral infection affects the bronchial tree which in turn causes the infection. Formation of mucus and swelling indicates that human body is fighting against these viruses. These viruses take significant time in order to become inactive (dead) and heal the damages that are caused to bronchial tubes. A virus that causes cold is also held responsible for causing bronchitis. Very rarely, infection is caused by fungus and bacterial infection.

By following certain prevention measures, one can reduce the risk of getting infected from acute bronchitis. Measures like discontinuing smoking, eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, frequent hand wash and prefer staying inside during cold, avoid crowded and polluted areas are certain precautions that help in preventing its risk.